A new Irish Ferries high-speed ferry has entered service on the Dublin-Holyhead route.
The Dublin Swift has been deployed following a full internal refurbishment.
The twin-hulled vessel replaces the smaller Jonathan Swift which was in service since 1999.
The new addition to the fleet – the largest fast ferry crossing the Irish Sea – will operate at a cruising speed of 35 knots to the same frequency of twice daily return sailings as the vessel it is replacing.
Dublin Swift has greater car (220) and passenger (820) carrying capacity plus a redesigned interior and upgraded passenger facilities.
The passenger area is in a single deck design rather than the double deck layout familiar to passengers previously.
Irish Ferries has upgraded the range and style of its food and entertainment inlcuding redesigned menus using Irish sourced ingredients.
Facilities include a dedicated TV Snug, cafeteria, self-service restaurant, games area and free wi-fi. In-seat recharging points and free refreshments are available in a club class lounge at the front of the ferry.
Dublin Swift was built by Austal Ships to the same twin-hulled, catamaran design as its predecessor in the same shipyard in Freemantle, Western Australia.