Sailing ferry across the Channel

In the Netherlands, we are familiar with sailing schedules of a ferry connection. In the UK and in France, such a connection has attracted a lot of attention. Under the name ‘Saillink’, passengers can sail across between Dover and Boulogne every day.

Ship and guests

The ferry in this case is a 17-metre cabin catamaran of the Lagoon 57S type. The choice of an ocean-going catamaran is not so strange: a teacup, even sailing downwind, just stays put. The ferry service is aimed at backpackers and touring cyclists. There are tourist destinations on both sides of the Channel that the organisation works with.

The mission statement

As usual, the organisation gives a ‘mission statement’. “SailLink believes in using what nature offers us. Sailing, once the backbone of maritime transport, was replaced by fossil fuels, bringing progress but also significant challenges to our planet. Sailing is the greenest choice, You arrive when you arrive, and eventually you really arrive. We prioritise wind power when conditions allow, which meant we sailed more than 70% pure last season. We use engines only when necessary to make sure you arrive on time.”

Pedestrians and cyclists only. No cars, no stress. The crossing takes 3-5 hours, depending on the wind. A maximum of 12 passengers. No queues, no terminal crowds. A single ticket costs £85.

Source: Sealink

Windassist sponsor