The P&O Ferries new €180 million super ferry, Spirit of France arrived in Dover yesterday (28 January).

Spirit of France began its 1,400 mile voyage to Dover from the STX Europe shipyard in Rauma, Finland under the command of Captain Steve Johnson, Senior Master.

At more than 47,000 gross tons and 213 metres in length, Spirit of France, and sister ship Spirit of Britain which began service last year, are the largest ferries ever built for the Dover Strait.

The combined cost of €360 million is the largest investment ever made by P&O Ferries.

The ship was originally scheduled to be delivered in September 2011.

The Spirit of France can hold up to 2,000 passengers and will serve the Dover to Calais route from next month.

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012