THE ferry service on Carlingford Lough will resume on Friday for the first time in more than three months.
The 20-minute scenic crossing was initially launched in 2017, linking Greencastle in Co Down and Greenore in Co Louth.
But the daily ferry service was suspended in March as a result of the coronavirus lockdown.
The first sailing is due to leave Greencastle at 9am on Friday July 10, continuing every hour until 8pm. Return crossings from Greenore will run hourly on the half-hour mark throughout the day until 8.30pm.
Carlingford Lough Ferry’s commercial director, Irene Hamilton, said the service will return with new safety protocols in line with public health guidelines.
“We have a range of new measures in place including regular intensive disinfecting of the public areas, social distancing protocols while onboard and an online pre-booking option that offers customers a 10 per cent discount when they book online prior to travelling.
“We are confident that we have created a safe environment on board so passengers can enjoy their journey in comfort”.
The company is anticipating a surge in interest this summer, with many families expected to holiday on the island.
“With foreign travel restricted, we know that many people will be considering staycations in 2020,” said Ms Hamilton.
“Our terminals are located less than an hour from Belfast and Dublin and we are easily accessible. The picturesque areas on both sides of Carlingford Lough offer a range of attractions and activities for both day-trippers or those taking short breaks.”
Carlingford Lough Ferry will also offer ‘lough and lighthouse illumination cruises this summer, running every run every Saturday and Sunday evening during five weekends in August.
The two-hour cruises showcase the lough’ scenery and will take patrons within 400 metres of the historic Haulbowline Lighthouse, located just off Cranfield Point, which is still active having been first built in 1824.
