P&O Ferries has resumed cross-Channel passenger sailings for the first time since it summarily dismissed almost 800 seafarers on March 17.
It said on Twitter that it will operate departures from Tuesday (May 3) with one ship.
The Spirit of Britain ferry has two departures today from Calais – 12.35 and 20.45 – and one from Dover at 16.05.
The company said on Twitter: “We are pleased to confirm we’re operating a one ship schedule 3rd – 7th May.”
A report by the BBC said the Spirit of Britain has been crossing the English channel for just under a week, carrying freight-only traffic.
Sky News reported that those travelling on the initial sailings had booked their tickets previously. The first available trip for anyone booking now is on Saturday (May 7).
Spirit of Britain tourist passenger sailings are expected to resume in full tomorrow (May 4).
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is reinspecting the Pride of Kent, which also operates on the Dover-Calais route, and the other two ferries, the Pride of Canterbury and the Spirit of France, are still out of action, added the BBC.
P&O Ferries caused outrage among politicians, trade unions and the public after sacking nearly 800 seafarers in March and replacing them with agency staff on lower wages.
Passenger services have already resumed on P&O Ferries’ three other UK routes: between Liverpool-Dublin; Cairnryan-Larne; and Hull-Rotterdam.
#PODover/#POCalais We are pleased to confirm we’re operating a one ship schedule 3rd – 7th May. If you’re travelling and the time provided is not suitable please call to discuss your options. Alternatively, if you don’t wish to travel, please email help@poferries.com for a refund
— P&O Ferries Updates (@POferriesupdate) May 3, 2022
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