HULL ferry port is on the south side of the city, astride the River Humber. It is well signposted, with free parking for passengers leaving cars. I travelled on Norsea, which sails overnight from Hull to Rotterdam. Norsun also operates on the route. My ship was late departing in both directions, delayed by the containers being loaded.The crossing takes12hrs 30mins.
Embarkation
Cars are loaded on an hydraulic ramp and have to turn around inside the ship as Norsea is not a roll-on, roll-off ferry. Passengers can board the ship from 4.30pm. Coaches are loaded last and their passengers have to board the ship on foot.
On board
As sailings are overnight, all passengers get somewhere to sleep. There are economy cabins without facilities or special cabins which have en-suite toilet and a small shower. All have two or four berths – some are inside with no window.
There are also four deluxe cabins, which sleep three people and have minibars, televisions and a good-size bathroom. At the other end of the market, reclining seats, with pillows and blankets, are included in the adult fare.
Dinner and breakfast in the restaurant is a set price which can be pre-paid or booked on board.
Entertainment includes a disco and live group in the Europa Lounge, or a quieter piano bar. There is also a casino, Boulevard Bar, cinema and children’s playroom. Duty-free prices are fractionally higher than on the Channel.
Conclusion
The cabins were clean and a fair size, although the shower was very small. I liked the offer of tea or coffee served in the morning.
Overall the facilities were good, but the position of the children’s playroom was poor as there didn’t seem to be anywhere for parents to sit and eat or drink while looking after their offspring. Service was a bit hit and miss – some stewards were too keen to clear away plates, while others had to be prompted to notice tables waiting for starters. The choice of menu was impressive. Opening the restaurant ahead of departure is a good idea for passengers who have had a long drive or those with children who need to eat.
Response
Tony Farrell, sales and marketing manager, P&O North Sea Ferries
“Since the ship was launched in 1987, there has been a change in people’s habits and now the vast majority of passengers upgrade from a reclining seat to a cabin. We sell from the top down, so those with facilities are the first to fill.
“That is why all the cabins on the new ships, launching in 2001, will have en-suite facilities. We will also have more deluxe cabins as they are at 85% occupancy over a year.
“We take training seriously. All our restaurant stewards go on training in customer care and food hygiene. That will be enhanced on the new ships. The new ships will not sail until 9pm as they will be berthed in the Humber so they don’t have to go through the lock, and they will be faster so they get in at the same time. We will still allow people to board from 4.30pm.”
P&O nsf
Crossing: Hull-Rotterdam.
Crossing time: 12hrs 30mins.
Frequency: every night.
Fares: adult five-night return, from £42. Standard return car and four passengers, from £274. Outside special cabin, from £66 per person return.
Meals: dinner – £11.80 prepaid, £12.85 booked on board (children £5.80 and £6.45 respectively). Breakfast – £5.80 prepaid, £6.45 booked on board (children £4.50).
Duty-free: Teachers whisky 1 litre, £10.99; Smirnoff vodka 1 litre, £10.50; Grolsch/Stella Artois, 24x50cl cans, £12.50.