I'm supporting the Cork to Swansea route with Fastnet Line because.......

Rianne Smith is Chairperson of Explore Baltimore (a marketing co-operative of 100 business people in the Baltimore, Co. Cork region) and runs Aquaventures Diving & Snorkelling Tours from The Stone House B&B in the village. Rianne and her husband Jerry are also shareholders with others in the West Cork Co-Operative which owns the Fastnet Line.

'There are several shareholders in this region and we are very proud to welcome back the visitors to the area, where they can enjoy good food, a great variety of activities and a sincere welcome. It is so important to show support and enthusiasm for this much needed return of a direct link between Cork and the UK, and I know of several people from this area who have happily invested in the future of this service, seeing it as an investment in the future for themselves and future generations' she said.

'Here in Baltimore we run several festivals throughout the year, so this year-round service will surely make a positive impact. Our Fiddle Fair with traditional musicians from all over the world, The O'Driscoll Clan Gathering, The Heritage Festival, as well as the Wooden Boat and Seafood Festivals and festivals in the adjoining islands, are quite unique and, I'm sure, will attract great interest from our UK neighbours.' Rianne went on to stress that this has to be a two-way street and that the people of the region might consider utilising the service for freight or pleasure purposes into the UK also.

Now open for bookings on www.fastnetline.com, this year-round service, which will carry passengers, cars, commercial freight, campers/caravans, bikes (and pets!) will run 6 nights a week, with additional sailings in high-season, i.e. July and August. Sailing will be overnight departing at 21.00 hours and arriving 07.00 a.m. next day. With a capacity of 1860 passengers, 440 cars, 40 trucks/trailers, and 300 cabins (including 14 deluxe cabins), the MV Julia is well suited to the route and to the enjoyment of a mini-cruise en route to Swansea. With a number of bars and restaurants, an on-board cinema and retail space, a new children’s' area, casino, kennels and extensive deck areas to enhance the experience, there is no doubt but that this route adds an exciting new option for consumers and businesses alike.

All aboard for a bright future!

ENDS