Norfolkline, which has built a thriving cross channel ferry business connecting Dover with Dunkirk, is boosting capacity for the summer by "stretching" its three ships. They are being converted to carry 1,000 passengers, an increase of nearly 30 per cent.

SeaFrance is retiring its slower vessels, Manet and Renoir, with a single high-performance ferry. The ship should be in service for the summer season following a refit.

On Britain's only high-speed rail line, Eurostar has declined to extend its summer route network beyond the usual Brussels, Paris, Avignon and Marne-la-Vallée. But this last destination, serving Disneyland Paris, will have 33,000 extra seats and more convenient schedules during the school summer holidays.

Tickets are now on sale for a new midday departure on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from London St Pancras to Marne-la-Vallée.