My Ferry Link launched the new Dover-Calais route

My Ferry Link, the name of the new cross-Channel operator which is leasing three ex-SeaFrance vessels from Eurotunnel, launched its maiden service on the Calais-Dover route on 20th August 2012. SeaFrance suspended its services in November last year and was declared bankrupt in January. Since then DFDS Seaways, in a joint-venture with LD Lines has launched a Calais-Dover service with two vessels while P&O has increased its capacity on the strait too.
My Ferry Link is offering eight daily crossings in each direction. The Berlioz left Calais at around 5.30 am on 20th August. My Ferry Link will operate two vessels initially, each plying four daily round trips. Freighter vessel, Nord Pas de Calais, which is currently undergoing heavy maintenance, is expected to join the Berlioz and Rodin in November, CEO Giguet explained.
My Ferry Link, which is run by a workers co-operative, has so far hired between 180 and 190 staff comprising both crew and commercial posts - the majority being ex-SeaFrance workers. The number also includes 20 UK-based posts. The payroll could rise to between 500 and 550 during 2013, with 70 of those based in the UK, Giguet added.