The blockade at the Port of Calais by aggrieved MyFerryLink workers has been partially lifted today. Today sees the 4th consecutive day of strike action, which until today has resulted in the Port of Calais being totally blocked. P&O have been operating limited freight only services to Boulogne, with no return service due to the lack of immigration controls at the French port, which no-longer has a permanent ferry operation.
However, only one ship is permitted in Calais port at a time, meaning P&O are offering a departure from Dover just once every two hours. DFDS have diverted one of their Calais ferries to Dunkerque, with the other (Malo Seaways, ex Stena Nordica) laid up at Dover. Rodin and Berlioz, the MyFerryLink ships, transferred to DFDS at midnight last night, however NIFS cannot determine wether they are still occupied by ex MFL employees. The striking workers are believed to now be in talks with the French Transport Ministry. Around 3000 trucks are believed to be awaiting departure to France, with UK authorities closing off large sections of motorway in Kent to act as a car park.
For the latest travel information, please contact you ferry operator directly. The situation is constantly changing, and delays are inevitable.
Title image: MyFerryLink ferries Berlioz and Rodin captured back in 2012. Competitor DFDS have agreed the terms and conditions regarding a purchase of the two vessels with owner Eurotunnel, resulting in strike action by aggrieved MyFerryLink staff. Photograph Copyright © Scott Mackey.
