Archives



Feature, Freight News, Road, Sea


Double joy for Dover as P&O Pioneer goes into service

[ June 19, 2023   //   ]

P&O Ferries’ new hybrid, double-ended ferry, P&O Pioneer, made its maiden voyage between Dover and Calais on 19 June.

The 230 metre ship is propelled by a combination of traditional fuel and battery power and has been designed to become carbon neutral in future. As technology develops and charging stations are brought in at ports, the installation of additional batteries will allow fully electric operation.

The ship will also be the world’s largest double-ended hybrid ferry; its two bridges avoid the need to turn around in port, which saves time and fuel.

As the longest ferry to sail between Dover and Calais, the Fusion Class P&O Pioneer and its sister ship P&O Liberté, which will join the fleet later this year, will replace the two remaining Darwin Class vessels in operation, the Pride of Kent and the Pride of Canterbury, following the previous retirement of the Pride of Burgundy.

P&O Ferries chief executive Peter Hebblethwaite, said: “P&O Pioneer marks a new era in low-carbon travel and trade for the UK and France, with the investment of £250m in new hybrid ships on the iconic Dover-Calais route.”

“We are determined to make P&O Ferries the best ferry company in Europe. That means: the best ships, the best routes, and the best value for our customers.”

Each vessel offers a total of 3663 lane metres for freight.

P&O says the Pioneer has the capacity to carry up to half a million units a year between the UK and the EU while producing 40% less carbon emissions than the ships they replace.

P&O Ferries will continue its space charter partnership with DFDS, allowing it to offer a turn up and go service.

The new vessels will offer the largest ever dedicated space for freight drivers on the Dover-Calais route, including a separate dining area, lounge, and showers.

Tags: