HOVERSPEED - FLYING THE FLAG FOR BRITAIN

19 March 2004

From the outset the new Hoverspeed exterior creates an impact with a huge Union Jack emblazoned on the outside, showing Hoverspeeds commitment to backing Britain.

As well as being the fastest way to reach France by sea, Hoverspeed is also confident that its exciting new shops, catering and entertainment facilities will make it the most enjoyable way to get to France.

On-board, parents can relax in new leather seating whilst children can take advantage of a new play area packed with things to keep them entertained. A flat screen TV will show cartoons and features which will change regularly throughout the season - which children can watch from the comfort of enormous floor cushions. The more energetic can get to work on the Lego play table or play snakes and ladders on jumbo-sized floor graphics with dice. Parents will be able to supervise from strategically placed seating nearby.

Those who enjoy the added luxury of travelling first class will also see the benefits of the re-vamp. First class passengers now get more seat for their money than previously and can relax in large, comfortable leather armchairs. They can also enjoy priority loading and unloading at port, complimentary refreshments and newspapers on board, plus attentive service from dedicated 1st staff . First Class passengers can also take advantage of exclusive 1st departure lounges at Dover, Calais, Newhaven and Dieppe terminals.

The Seacats catering facilities have also been given a boost with an excellent choice of tempting, tasty, hot and cold food from Upper Crust. Beers, wine and spirits will continue to be available from the bar areas.

For those whove forgotten last-minute essentials or want to snap up some seasonal bargains for their ongoing journey, the new shop has a fantastic range of wines, beers, spirits, perfumes, gifts, snacks and confectionery. Special offers are highlighted throughout the season.

Geoffrey Ede, Managing Director of Hoverspeed, says: Were delighted with our new look and think our customers will be too. Theres a real pride in Britain now particularly after Englands recent Rugby World Cup triumph and we wanted to do our bit to back our country. We are a top-class British company intent on providing the best of British service at a highly competitive price and we aim to ensure that our customers will be proud to chose Hoverspeed as their preferred means of travelling to the Continent.

Hoverspeeds 2004 sailing season starts on 19 March from Dover and 1 April from Newhaven. The journey from Calais to Dover takes about an hour and there are up to 15 return crossings a day in high season and three daily return crossings from Newhaven to Dieppe, a journey that takes around two hours.

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