Tourism in Northern France: Black Friday Sail and See Ports campaign
Every year, DFDS transports more than 1.8 million passengers to the French ports of Calais and Dunkirk using their ferry crossings from Dover. But it says only a small percentage take the time to enjoy these bustling port towns for themselves. DFDS, in partnership with the Calais Tourism Office and Dunkirk Tourism Office, has now launched ‘See Ports’ – a campaign encouraging its passengers to take the time to experience all that these towns have to offer.
To help boost interest, DFDS is also offering exclusive discounts for local attractions. To launch the campaign, the company visited both Dunkirk and Calais to ask locals and visitors what it is that they love most about the destinations – with the beaches, good food and culture being popular choices in both towns.
Calais has long been an important gateway for trade – however the town is the perfect spot for anyone wanting to spend a long weekend in a quaint, traditional setting. Residents describe the town as both interesting and endearing, with the beach being a favourite spot for those seeking sun, sea and sand in the warmer months. Alternatively, for those looking to try out adrenaline pumping water-sports, the beach provides ideal conditions for wind-surfing and kite-surfing year-round.
Following the success of last year’s blockbuster film Dunkirk, a record one million visitors travelled to the historic city of Dunkirk in 2017. Tourists are welcomed by locals who love sharing everything there is to do and see, with many taking the time to visit the famed World War II Museum, as well as the iconic beach and coastline.
Dunkirk is also an underrated haven for foodies – visitors can enjoy the unique gastronomic offering on board the Princess Elizabeth and join the locals at one of the bustling bistros offering fresh fish, cheeses and wine from the region.
DFDS operates daily sailings between Dover-Dunkirk (from £39 each way for a car with maximum of nine people) and Dover-Calais (from £45 each way for a car with maximum of nine people). Meanwhile, the company has also launched a « Black Friday Sail » this weekend, offering big savings on its Amsterdam mini cruise.
There are selected dates available until 31 March 2019 but the offer ends at 5pm on Monday 26 November.
DFDS is Northern Europe’s largest integrated shipping and logistics company, with a network of around 30 routes and 50 freight and passenger ships. It has been named the ‘World’s Leading Ferry Operator’ for the last 7 years (2011-2017) as well as ‘Europe’s Leading Ferry Operator’ (2012-18). It currently operates up to 54 sailings a day between Dover and France on its Dover-Dunkirk and Dover-Calais routes.
Further details are available here
