MV Galicia makes first stop at ABP’s Port of Plymouth

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Image Caption: Aerial of MV Galicia docked at the Port of Plymouth

ABP was delighted to welcome MV Galicia, Brittany Ferries’ newest vessel, to the Port of Plymouth last week.

Measuring 215 metres, she will be one of Brittany Ferries’ largest vessels, and therefore trials at Plymouth were conducted in close cooperation with Cattewater Harbour Commission and Brittany Ferries when she arrived at the port on Wednesday. These trials were successful, and she docked safely and efficiently.

Speaking about the arrival of Galicia at Plymouth, Steve Lawrie, Port Operations Manager at Brittany Ferries, said: “It was very satisfying for all of us at Brittany Ferries in Plymouth to welcome our brand new ship Galicia to Millbay Docks. The berthing trials went perfectly, proving the ship can operate from Plymouth if needed.

“Galicia’s arrival at Plymouth will help free our Brittany Ferries’ flagship Pont-Aven, offering an additional weekly round trip from Plymouth to Santander, starting in March 2021. This will double the frequency and capacity on that route, so it is great news for the city of Plymouth and our customers who like using the port.”

With the success of the trials at Plymouth, it means Galicia’s sister ships, Salamanca and Santona - arriving in 2022 and 2023 respectively – can operate safely from Plymouth as well.  

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, ABP have been working with Britany Ferries to ensure we offer flexibility to respond to the changing needs of their operations as they modernise their fleet.

Speaking about the partnership, Tom Batchelor, Port Manager, South West, said: “We were extremely excited to welcome the Galicia to Plymouth on Wednesday, demonstrating our ability to meet the demand of Brittany Ferries future fleet upgrades. It supports the positive news that the Pont Aven will be making an additional weekly trip to Santander from Plymouth next March onwards which we look forward to seeing.”

Despite the pandemic, by the end of September, Plymouth saw an additional 3 calls of Brittany Ferries’ Cap Finistere with over 248 freight units, 1,095 vehicles and over 1,800 passengers.