Brittany Ferries has reported a 20% rise in forward bookings so far in January over the same period last year.
The increase represents 125,000 more passengers opting to travel on the company’s cross channel routes to five destinations in France and two in Spain as it marks its 50th anniversary.
The upturn in bookings comes as new ship Santona heads to Europe ahead of entering into service in March.
The vessel is powered by liquified natural gas (LNG) and will sail from Portsmouth to Santander in Spain and Cherbourg in France.
Sales and marketing director Paul Acheson said: “It’s early days, but we are delighted with how things are looking this year.
“Our first sailing took place on 2 January 1973. Fifty years on we have emerged from the Covid era with more people choosing the pace, space and convenience of travelling by sea.
“More than ever, we are ready to welcome passengers on board to enjoy a vacation in the most beautiful parts of France and Spain.”