Dear Mark,
Many thanks your kind comments.
Originally the restaurant upstairs was supposed to be a sort of "a la carte" restaurant, but, actually, it was not very convenient as the kitchen was downstairs....
So we are presently trying to find a way of using that (limited) spare space. Actually I am still awaiting the brilliant proposals from my colleagues who were supposed to present some new ideas...
Best personal regards
Pierre  Posted on: 11 May 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hello Pierre, I love you new boats from Newhaven to Dieppe and I am a frequent traveller with you.
My question is why is the "posh" upstairs restuarant above the ordinary restuarant on you boats always cordonned off? Would you consider putting in an upmarket restuarant on this level? The food downstairs is OK but I personally would pay more for better quality.
Keep up the good work.
Mark Posted on: 11 May 2008 by Mark Wadlow from Alfriston
Hi Avril,
It was supposed to be on line tonight but it seems it could be slightly delayed till Monday 12th. My colleagues are indeed working hard to put it on line as soon as possible.
We do apologize for delay.
Best personal regards
Pierre Posted on: 10 May 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hih Pierre,
Nice to see you working this morning too. Yes your web site looks good, but I still cannot book on line for Rosslare / Le Harve for December. When will bookiung come on-line.
Regards,
Avril Posted on: 10 May 2008 by Avril from Co. Meath Ireland
Dear John,
Pictures of our SMT newbuilding.
Actually I don't have any pictures either. THe reason is quite simple: the vessel's construction did not really started yet and it will be really beginning when our first RoRo for Airbus (City of Hamburg) will be completed, say coming July at the same shipyard.
Then we will not fail to publish, from time to time, some photos showing the building process.
The ship will be a double deck loader, of course.
Best personal regards
Pierre Posted on: 10 May 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Like the lady who has posted below i too am a first time user to your booking system, however, unlike her i had no problem understanding what to me is a very logical route through a booking, i then tried booking with other companies and have to say that i find yours to be one of the easiest.
I am not looking to start an argument with the lady but feel that her comments are unwarrented, i dont know of many other companies where a senior person has a blog and takes the time to personally answer questions.
Just because you dont like the answer does not give a person the right to make such statements, if you did not listen to her you could not have replied to her original query, the purpost of a blog is to get feedback both positive and negative, however the old adage that the customer is always right is not always true.
I look forward to my first trip with you
Regards
Dennis Posted on: 09 May 2008 by Dennis from London
I am interested in your new build but can only find very basic information. I think Singapore Technologies Engineering are the builders but there is nothing on their site. BF continually show us pictures on their builds. {eg The Armorique}Where can I find similar on your vessel. Of greatest importance is it a double loader as lack of this facility was partly to blame for the demise of the P&O twins where they could only load a deck at a time. The Newhaven boats, I think, also lack this facility?? Posted on: 09 May 2008 by John Pugh from Birmingham
I have been on your ferry for about 40 round trips and have found the experience excellent, from the early days to the present. The ferry has been developed and is now good, I look forward to the new ferry when you will have day and night boats each way. Also thank you for continuing with the Newhaven service. Much better going to Le Harve.
John.
Posted on: 09 May 2008 by John Osborne from Salisbury England
Hi Pierre
I would be very grateful if you could respond to my e-mail sent two weeks ago regarding my being unable to use my bulk purchase tickets this year.
I look forward to hearing from you. Posted on: 08 May 2008 by John from Leicestershire
I thought Pierre, the idea of the blog was to listen to customer comments, but obviously you don't!!
I as a passenger for the first time had no idea why following selecting my sailing when I pressed "reserve Seats" for the seats I got all the blurb about the seats but no way of booking them!!! That is illogical. And, when I pressed 'back' all the input I'd put in before had gone. That is not logical either to lose all the data you've just put in and have to start all over again.
Then I put it all in again and pressed search. The crossings showed up with a price and ordinary seats. There is no hint on the page there that you can change your accommodation or how to go about it. It looks like that the sailing and the two standard seats are all that's on offer. I had to ring up for help, and your person at the other end did not have a nice attitude either in helping me. It was not a good experience.
I discovered then only by phoning in that you then press 'continue' which is normally the thing you do only when you are about to say yes and pay up, not add a seat or cabin on this or other sites. I then found you could change the accommodation arrangements there, but then when you logically would press 'amend booking' because you are amending the accommodation. No wrong. Again you lose all the data just you've put in again and go back to it showing only "standard seat." I did this FOUR times and kept being sent back to 2 "standard seats", before I tried 'continue' and finally managed to change the accommodation. I do not think I would be the only person using your site to press the wrong button, which is why I raised it, but feel as you probably will disagree as you do not seem to listen.
I have booked so far over the years booked many, many crossings and travel arrangments online with P and O Brittanny Ferries, Eurotunnel, Ryanair, Sea France and I can honestly say yours is the most difficult and illogical. With respect, you cannot really be objective as you are not a passenger yourself. You know how it works, you know what buttons to press next. What seems logical to the designer or chairman does not necessarily seem logical to the user. I know this myself as I have designed websites. You might think press 'continue' is obvious to press but it might not be for someone else.
As a new timer on your site (who is very used to buying things on the internet) I found it really annoying and awkward to use, and had hoped you would listen as you are supposed to be a listening company.
Posted on: 08 May 2008 by Julie Fox from EastAnglia and vienne
Hello Niall,
I am sorry to learn about the coldish temperature in the sleeper seats lounge.
I hope you did not catch a cold (as I did last week end in Normandy. I am not used to such a sunny weather...).
Did you mention this fact to the crew? Did they fail to react?
I do know that, from time to time, we have some difficulties in tuning the air conditionning system in some areas of the ship. And sofar we have been unable to find the correct settings according to outside temperature etc... Therefore the crew has to do it manually, area by area.
It should be better with the newbuilding vessels.
Thanks for your support
Pierre Posted on: 08 May 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Rosslare to Le Havre
Dear Avril,
I am told that the bookings will be open online end of this week!
As you may have noticed, the new web site is already on line...
Dear Richard,
Needless to say that we will save some space for you on the maiden trip to UK! Don't worry and thanks for your kind support.
Best regards
Pierre Posted on: 08 May 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Dear Julie,
Many thanks for your message. I am sorry if I have not been able to reply to all the various posts, but I have been replying directly by e-mail and some of the questions already got an answer in earlier posting.
Actually this was supposed to be a "blog" and not exactly a FAQ corner (although I am quite pleased to reply to most of the questions as much as I can, I am also, from time to time, busy with some other matters...)
As far as I know, this booking site is one of the easiest one at least for the ferry business (I have been personally checking most of them!).
Furthermore, and as far as I can notice, the "logical" order for booking is fully respected as you do have to select: crossing(s), dates, number of passengers and vehicle, accomodation and then you get your fare quotation....
So I fail to understand your comment...
If you have any problem please contact my colleagues at following e-mail address lehavretourisme@ldlines.fr
Best regards
Pierre
Posted on: 07 May 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Dear Dave,
Our Sleeper Seats are not pre allocated but they are located in a dedicated lounge with a steward checking access and placing our guests.
You can therefore rest assured that the person in charge will make sure that you can be seated all together with your family.
In the very unlikely case where you would meet a problem, you can always contact our Chief Purser (Thérèse ou Jean-Christophe on board Norman Spirit).
Looking forward to welcoming you on board with your family.
Best personal regards
Pierre Posted on: 07 May 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Dear Pierre
Why have you not posted any answers to peoples questions since 22nd April. There are lots and lots that have no replies and I for one as a potential new LD customer would like the replies to some of their comments and queries before booking.
Also your website is not easy to use. You select crossings and on the same page it says book ld sleeper, but if you press that it just gives general info about sleeper seats and you press 'back' and then find you've lost all the data you just put it. It is not obvious you press search and then continue. Even on the 'continue' page it says amend booking which I did because I didn't want a standard seat but a cabin, and again it loses all the details of the crossings. It is a bizarre website, and not logical. Surely you should be able to select crossing, then accommodation then get your price! Posted on: 07 May 2008 by Julie Fox from East Anglia and Vienne
We are booked to travel Portsmouth- Le Havre with you last week of July. We have booked Club Class recliners. Are these seats pre allocated or are they done on arrival. We have 2 young children with us and would want to be together. Posted on: 07 May 2008 by Dave from Wolverhampton
Bonjour Pierre
It is still worth us driving from c.bourg to le-havre for your super service
but if there is any chance of LD coming to cherbourg many more people will
use you in pref to other lines........who fail to listen as you do, see you in a couple of weeks.....best wishes Posted on: 05 May 2008 by laurence from cherbourg
Bonsoir,
Franco-Britannique, je traverse la manche au moins une fois par mois.
Je suis par ailleurs Directeur des Opérations dans un grand groupe hôtelier, après un passage comme Commissaire sur des bateaux de croisière.
Votre service Le Havre - Portsmouth me semble bien pensé, efficace, ponctuel et peu cher. Je l'ai utilisé plusieurs fois, la dernière pour un Aller / Retour comme piéton, pour le simple plaisir d'être en mer.
Juste un commentaire sur ce que je connnais le mieux : le service hôtelier de bord.
Les services généraux sont bien tenus, les bars et "Little Italy" sont propres et bien achalandés, les produits F&B acceptables. Les salons sont propres, et hier le salon de sièges à 180 degrés était tenu avec grande efficacité par un steward fier de son domaine. En revanche je vous écris ce soir pour vous dire mon étonnement avec l'état des cabines. Cela fait deux fois que je dors de nuit en cabine intérieure, hier la 875. Votre service de blanchissage n'est pas en cause : draps et serviettes sont propres et bien repassés. Ce qui pêche, c'est la maintenance et le nettoyage : molette d'ajustement de ventilation cassée, moquette repoussante de saleté (vos aspirateurs fonctionnent mal ou ne sont pas utilisés), poussière sur la tablette, poils sur le lavabo et la cuvette wc, siège wc brimlebalant, rideau de douche sale, distributeur de savon cassé, notice sur la porte totalement délavée et illisible. Je pourrais croire qu'il s'agit d'un accident, mais la dernière fois ce fut exactement la même chose, je suis certain que le mal est en cabines est général et constant.
Avec tant de temps au Havre pour nettoyer, c'est anormal et témoigne de l'absence complète de contrôles de la part de la hiérarchie à bord. Il "suffirait" de contrôles aléatoires rigoureux vers 16h et vers 22h30.
L'équipage est par ailleurs raisonnablement avenant, même si l'on sent que vivant à bord beaucoup se laissent submerger par la routine. De nouveau je pense que les officiers hôtellerie manquent probablement un peu d'exemplarité (en sourires), de tonus et éventuellement de professionnalisme.
Votre service, que vous voulez "low cost" par rapport à Brittany Ferries positionné sur le haut-de-gamme, doit s'appuyer sur quelques valeurs de base, et la propreté en est sûrement une. Sinon le risque à terme, même avec de nouveaux bateaux, est de sombrer dans le glauque. Une autre valeur à cultiver peut-être serait le "fun", "sympa" or cet équipage me semble un tantinet tristounet.
Merci de toute manière pour votre offre transmanche, qui permet sur l'Ouest un vrai choix. Je suis impatient de voyager sur le départ de nuit du Havre, avec retour le midi, mieux adapté à la clientèle qui vit en France.
Cordialement,
Steven Daines
Posted on: 04 May 2008 by Steven Daines from Paris
Hi Pierre,
Great news your ferry is going to operate out of Rosslare, when do you expect to launch this service so we can book. We badly need another ferry operator all year round from Ireland.
Merci,
Avril Posted on: 04 May 2008 by Avril from Co. Meath Ireland
Many thanks to carlos and antonio.. we use the club lounge a lot through our privilege card as we are back and forth for both business and pleasure.. They make our trip worthwhile and most of the staff recognise us now.. we feel we are amongst old friends...much more friendly than that lot down the road!! We dont travel with them ever now.. even though we have to drive further to gt to Le Havre.. roll on the new ferry!!! thanks.. and are there plans to renew the privilege cards as Ive noticed it expires in June this year.. Vivre LD Lines!!! Posted on: 02 May 2008 by jennie poate from Vire, France
I am a regular traveller Portsmouth/LeHavre with LD.
However Monday eveing last on the Portsmouth crossing I and a friend booked sleeper seats.
The air-conditioning was full on all night and freezing cold.
However the toilet area was acceptably warm?
Was the air conditioning faulty or if not why was it so cold?
Many thanks Niall Posted on: 02 May 2008 by Niall from Hove
I have been trying for several weeks to book a passage on your Portsmouth to Le Harve Normand Spirit on 13 - 05 - 2008 with the sleeper seat. You are running a special for that time frame of 10 pounds. Every time I try to book on line I get the following message:
Authentication Required
Enter User Name and password for "Administration www.ldlines.com" at www.ldlines.co.uk
There is no place to register. I have tried everything. I am so frustrated.
Please help me book my passage on line! I am leaving for Great Britain in 3 days!
Posted on: 01 May 2008 by Joy from Vancouver, Washington, USA
Cher Pierre,
I make frequent journeys from POR to LeH and back. I was on one of the very first sailings of mv Norman Spirit and would like to be on the "maiden voyage" of your new vessel in November. Is it possibe to pre-book a passage now, before it is released to the internet??
Merci bien.
Richard. Posted on: 30 April 2008 by Richard Jones from Hayling Island.
Hi Pierre,
I recently (start of April) took a return trip from Portsmouth with my bicycle. I would like to commend you on the on-time running and the nice furnishing on board the Norman Spirit.
I just have one or two comments...
Personally, I think the food at "Little Italy" could still use some improvement, it honestly did seem like "cafeteria food". But, at least it was edible, and I like being able to pay in dual currencies!
Also, on the way over, I had a sleeper seat, which was very nice. The more prepared people had brought sleeping bags. This was not possible for me though, so it would be nice if perhaps you would be able to offer (maybe at a small charge) a pillow-and-blanket, like they offer on airlines?
Thanks and keep up the good work,
David Posted on: 30 April 2008 by DAVID H from Southampton
I was speaking to a friend and she said that she thought LD gave a discount for senior citizens. Is this correct? Posted on: 29 April 2008 by June from Chateaubriant
Hi, Pierre,
Like a recent poster, I bought a block of 20 tickets as I travel backwards and forwards a lot. I am finding the same - cheaper to buy at the time than to use my block tickets. Whilst I am not complaining, it would be nice if the time scale could be increased or perhaps you could give us a credit towards a sleeper seat if there is a big difference.
Some time ago I posted on AngloINFO about the food, which, at that time, I did not think was really as good as it could have been. I am pleased to tell you that I have found a big improvement recently and I have stopped going to Mc Donalds before boarding !! However, the chips can be awful as they seem to be dumped into one of the heated vegetable containers which makes then go soggy. I am no chef, but shouldn"t they be kept in the basket to keep them crisp.
Apart from the chips, a great service for which I thank you !
Steve. Posted on: 28 April 2008 by Steverockers from Vire, Calvados
Hi Pierre
We purchased your 10 advance booking tickets and have since used 4 of them. However, since then we find we are unable, this year, to make anything but short trips when the normal fare is less than the advanced purchase rate. For example I intend to visit France for 3 days next week - your standard fare is £54 compared to £99 being the advance booking tickets rate !
Is there any way my unused tickets can be "held over" and used in 2009 ? If not, can you suggest any other options ? Posted on: 27 April 2008 by John from Leicestershire
Dear Pierre,
this year we will need to use your routes more and more. I travelled out on Friday and came back on Thursday myself and was impressed by the staff onboard. Polite, welcoming and efficient. The tables were super clean all the time and i was so impressed i have included you on our ferry pages. Crossing prices, very good, meals not bad.
I had to alter my return date on the way back, i changed it by phone and was charged £10. I was very happy with that. Overall in my book, excellent service. See you next time. Posted on: 26 April 2008 by Richard from Nuneaton and Denia
A maritime journalist, Russell PLUMMER, has been writing some very interesting features about ferry services from U.K. to Le Havre in the March and April issues of the famous Ships Monthly magazine.
One can find some great pictures of the Norman Spirit as well as some of the famous ferries of the past.
Russel PLUMMER reminds us that one of the first car ferries to call Le Havre in 1964, the VIKING 1 (under Thoresen colors) is still sailing as Media V in Greece!
Have a look at their web site at www.shipsmonthly.com
Pierre Posted on: 25 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Pierre,
I'm a regular user - fantastic service in all weathers including a Force 8.
I have a van and a car, and its great to see car deals etc available.
Have you ever considered doing something fairer about vans ? How about a charge per metre used ( height and length)?
Many people carriers with roof boxes and 4x4 are on as cars, but my (smaller) van is more expensive. Last crossing had to be by tunnel. Posted on: 25 April 2008 by Martin from Derbyshire
Pierre
Could you offer a heavily discounted, last minute type 24 hour return (Le Havre- Portsmouth out, Portsmouth/ Le Havre back) for the many British ex-pats living in Normandy who need to get back to the UK for a short while, or just want a days shopping in the UK? A similar scheme used to available from the UK with both BF and P&O for £25 return. I do not know whether it still exists from the UK, as far as I know it was never available France/UK/France. If you made it available for bookings made within 24 hours of sailing from Le Havre, it would only take up space that was not going to be booked anyway, and so would not inflict on your normal bookings, but may provide additional income.
If you take up the idea, may I be your first customer, please? At the moment I cannot afford to return to the UK for any reason, and there have recently been 2 deaths of close family members in the UK, a 24 hour return crossing would have enabled me to attend the funerals.
Kind regards
Jane Darby
Posted on: 24 April 2008 by Jane from Ecouche, 61
Pierre - I concur with Maureen about the breakfast pricing - my wife likes egg on toast and can be charged from 2.80 to 5.95 with it usually being the 5.95 which has stuck even on challenge. I agree with the formule policy and actually think your food is better then a competitor on a nearby route :-). We too have stopped having breakfast at the moment. May be your staff need a better understanding of our English breakfasting needs for those in betweenies who like egg or beans on toast. Regards Rob Posted on: 24 April 2008 by Rob from Leicester
dear Pierre,
Hope you can send me in the right direction, booked newhaven to le havre return 23 may 08 and return 29 may 08, first time i have booked a ferry on line to france have always used the tunnel, but this was a great price and gets us right to Houlgate with a very short car journey. Since booking i have tried to find information on cabins as i am travelling with small children and have also found out that i am pregnant, could you advise me on the cost and if available a 2berth, on suite facilities may be handy too if you have them! a 2 berth would do so i can have a lie down with my 5 year old and 2 year old. My husband will be having too much fun with the older ones to bother about resting. look forward to hearing from you Posted on: 24 April 2008 by caroline from surrey
Cher Frederic,
Of course some of my colleagues may have had some contacts with the Boulogne Port Authorities, as we may have, from time to time, with the main ports in France and UK.
We are interested by the scheduled developments of the port but, as far as I know, we don't have any serious project and therefore I don't have any comments on this subject.
Bien à vous
Pierre Posted on: 22 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Maureen,
£2.80 is the price of the continental breakfast menu and the total cost of the complete English breakfast is £5.95. For what you have been listing we usually compute £2.3 for 2 items and a toast. Our pricing policy is to to make a discount on the "menu" formula. We value your comment and I will ask for our pricing policy to be more clear and visible to passengers.
As far as vegetarians are concerned we have been adding (two months ago, I believe and at my request) some mix of vegetables with rice and curry. As long as we have enough demand we are prepared to cater more. What would you like to be proposed?
Thanks and best regards
Pierre Posted on: 22 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Dear Laurence,
The concept of our "Special offers" is to provide economical alternatives to our customers interested in the Portsmouth/Le Havre's route but who still want to enjoy the pricing structure offered by the Dover Straight operators even at the cost of crossing on a (comfortable) seat instead of a cabin
These offers are therefore clearly indicating that they are based on a crossing on a "standard reclining seat" or on "Club Class seat" with an extra of 5£.
By doing so, we do believe that we are straightforward in our marketing policy and it is our aim to provide the widest range possible to our customers.
It remains a fact that cabins are extremely popular and that we cannot propose discounted tariffs for all products without jeopardizing the economy of our service.
This being said, it is our commercial policy to remain competitive for the whole range of products we sale including for cabins and we do hope you will find our prices to be very attractive. One may find from time to time some cheaper offers than ours but, basically and as far as I know, we are definitely the cheapest on the central and western channel.
Best personal regards
Pierre
Posted on: 22 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hello Peter,
Boulogne has just begun its new ferry terminal, which will be put into service in April 2009. There is much talk of LD Lines in Boulogne. Are you in contact with the cci of Boulogne. Do you have any projects line between Dover and Boulogne and the motorways of the sea
Thanks in advance for your response and good continuation on Dieppe and Le Havre.
(I would like to see much LD Lines in Boulogne!)
Fred Posted on: 22 April 2008 by Frédéric Cheuva from Boulogne
I have tried to book on your current 'special offers' and although I am unable to find any crossings at the quoted price I did find a reasonable price - £99 return for a short trip. Unfortunately you then wanted to charge £100 for a cabin! (Inside, with no facilities). It appears (and your staff confirm this) that you are you are giving with one hand and taking away with the other. Not good enough! You need to be much more straightforward about this and say upfront that the special offers have serious strings attached. As it is, I can get a cheaper deal with the competition. Posted on: 22 April 2008 by Laurence from UK
Hello Pierre
My husband and I use your service Portsmouth to Le Havre and back at least 4 times a year.
We are a bit concerned that as vegetarians we only have the option of eating pasta with a sauce or a plate of vegetables. Are there any plans to cater more for people like us?
Also for breakfast baked beans and scrambled eggs with a slice of toast can cost anywhere from £2.95 to the full cost of a full English breakfast. There appears to be no consistency. Hence my husband no longer has breakfast as it can be very expensive. Can you help?
Best regards
Maureen Posted on: 19 April 2008 by Maureen from Gillingham, Dorset
Hi Pierre
Can you tell me what the disabled cabin has? Does it just have the 'double berth' that I can see in the site photo?
Is the children's area wheelchair accessible?
Thanks for your help
John Posted on: 17 April 2008 by John from london
Hi Andy,
I am quite sure that your wife will enjoy a smooth trip. The Norman Spirit is a large and very confortable ship (also fitted with stabilizers).
I have been e-mailing to you directly.
Dear Jim,
I already replied to this question. Yes we do have a bulk ticket scheme for LD Transmanche Ferries. Please be kind enough to contact our colleague E. Bridiers at following address:
emmanuelle.bridiers@transmancheferries.com
As far as the salad is concerned I would be tempted to believe that this is the "Chef special" as we obviously have the same providers on both vessels.
Hello Guy (Surrey)
If you are considering to travel on the Norman Spirit from Le Havre I don't believe you need any special accomodation. If you are travelling overnight from Portsmouth I would suggest to book a cabin (the one without en suite facilities are quite confortable) or sleeper seats (fully reclinable at 180 degrees, which are quite pleasant too). I would also suggest that you contact our team to book a cot.
Many thanks for your support
Pierre Posted on: 17 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
i am considering using your service in late june..big problem i have 2 year old travelling with me ..which accommadion do u recommend?? Posted on: 16 April 2008 by guy from surrey
As a local resident and regular user of the Newhaven-Dieppe service, I have two questions:
Is there any chance of a regular user discount or the facility to buy books of tickets (as we can with at least one of your competors)?
Why are the salads on Cote d'Albatre so much better than on Seven Sisters??
Regards
Jim Posted on: 16 April 2008 by Jim from Sussex
Dear Pierre,
My family and I will be travelling with you on 26th Aug '08 1700 ferry from Le Havre to Portsmouth.
I have 3 children between the ages of 2 and 11 and , by then, a 7 month pregnant wife who gets very sea sick just to complicate matters!
We have be considering getting a cabin for the trip to make life more comfortable and the trip memorable, for all the right reasons.
Could you please advise on what cabin / s you would recommend for us, taking every thing into consideration.
Many thanks for your co operation and help,
Kind regards,
Andy
Posted on: 15 April 2008 by Andy from Dorset
Hello Joby,
as far as I know (they don't tell me everything...) the Norman voyager should leave Portsmouth at 13h00 on week days and arrive in Le Havre at 19h30. Then the vessel will leave at 23h00 to arrive Porstmouth at 06h30.
This new sailing will be available as from November 1st.
Hope it helps.
Dear John,
frankly I don't believe it would make any sense, economically speaking. BAI is already offering a lot of departures every day from Saint Malo and I am tempted to believe that the demand is not strng enough to support another operator.
Hi Derrick,
You are right indeed. All the offers are focused on standard cars plus passengers. I have asked our team to look at it and I hope that they will be able to provide some interesting fares, in the near future, for motorhomes and vans.
Hi Robin,
It is no secret that we are interested by the Dover straits. It is also true that the market is already filled up by various operators and I don't believe that it needs extra capacityeither...
We are therefore waiting for the right opportunity.
Hello Barry,
You are also right. Our bulk ticket scheme is indeed quite attractive and would certainly need some more publicity.
We shall think about it.
Let me thank you all for your time, your kind support (we need it).
Please be sure we shall continue to try to provide the best possible service (security and quality first) with the most competitive rates (which is not easy when all the costs are rising, bunkers, wages, not to mention the weakness of the sterling pound).
Best personal regards
Pierre
Posted on: 15 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Pierre,
Nice to see that you are expanding the fleet... give BF a run for their money instead of ours.
Yes, I also believe that LD listens to comments and suggestions.. I read a few on the AngloInfo Normandy Website - now you have your own Blog... well done.
We recently renewed our subscription service (10 Crossing block booking) at Le Havre with Fred... He commented that it is still only a select few that have takn up this option (mostly your early operation customers). For others reading this Blog, who are not aware of this scheme, there is also a 20 Crossing option (with free Club Class upgrade).
Is this going to be offered to more Passengers? why not make it better known? It is financially more attractive and less restrictive than the BF Property Owners Club (of which I am an ex member).
Keep up the good work, we Pensioners need LD's competative pricing.
Pierre, Merci pour votre attention.
Posted on: 14 April 2008 by Barry from Cheshire and Dept 22 Bretagne
Loving LD Line - any chance of taking the company to other routes? At Dover I'm not a fan of any the operators.
Posted on: 14 April 2008 by Robin from London
Hi Pierre.
We have homes in England and France and share time between the two.
We are disappointed that most offers feature car travel as we travel mainly in our Motorhome which we understand is a larger vehicle.
We wonder if occasional preferential terms could be offered to people like us who loyaly use your services.
kind regards. Posted on: 14 April 2008 by Derrick from Lancashire England and Passais La Conception
Have just read of your proposed Irish Route, am really delighted about this as I love your English ship and it,s high standards which are ;acking on some of the current Irish Routes .also your realistic pricing policy.
Roll on November Posted on: 11 April 2008 by Maimie from Belfast /Northern Ireland
I travel to France very regularly, and am delighted that LD services continue to stop the dreaded Brittany Ferries having a total monopoly on the western routes. The more routes and times you add the better. What about going to St. Malo from somewhere between Portsmouth and Exeter? You could fill at least one ship every day as virtually everyone I speak to hates the dreaded BF!!
John, Solihull Posted on: 11 April 2008 by John Haigh from Solihull
Very interested in new Po/LeH. Any news on timings yet. Posted on: 11 April 2008 by joby from Hagley
Dear Michael,
The ship is presently under construction in Italy.
If you wish to have an idea (although they won't be exact sister ships) you may look at the "Sorrento"'s pictures in our web site.
Dear John,
We expect to open the booking for the second vessel around beginning May.
Hi Debbie,
Please see my previous post on the subject.
As far as I am concerned I don't have any more information on the subject.
All the best
Pierre Posted on: 11 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hello Pierre
I hear that French language courses are going to be offered on board the Newhaven-Dieppe crossings soon
What a brilliant idea!
As a regular channel hopper I'll definately sign up for some tuition,l need it!
Please could you e mail details of when these are commencing and how to book
Thanks in advance
Debbie Shute
Posted on: 11 April 2008 by Debbie Shute
Any idea when the additional services out of Portsmouth/Le Havre will open for booking? Posted on: 11 April 2008 by John from Herefordshire
Dear BC,
I would like first to thank you very much for your loyalty to LD Lines.
Our advert that says "a bed for the price of a seat" refers to the fact our sleeper seats recline 180 degrees and can be turned completely into a bed. Hence the ad, a bed for the price of a seat. It is however not meant you could have a bed for the price of a standard seat. I am sorry for this misunderstanding.
Also, our special offers are commercialised with standard reclining seats or club class seats only (details available on our special offer pages). Consequently, whenever you opt for sleeper seats, the price of the crossing goes up to standard fare, hence the difference in price.
I hope this clarifies our pricing policy and I also apologise for unclear answer from our customer service,
Thanks for your message, and for giving me the opportunity to comment this quote.
All the best;
Pierre Posted on: 10 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hello Pierre
Do you have anymore information on the new ship or any pictures we could view? Or do you know on any websites that have any?
all the best
michael Posted on: 09 April 2008 by michael barnes from portsmouth
Planning a visit to the UK (21-4-08 to 1-5-08) I went online to book up with LD (2 adults + car). There was an advert which said book a sleeper seat for the price of a ordinary seat.
However, for a return trip with standard seats was £119, but with a standard seat (Le Harvre/ Portsmouth) and a sleeper seat on the return was £170! A sleeper for both trips was £190. Big hike in prices!
Who can explain? Certainly not the LD email contact, the answer was very strange and not at all an explantion of the big leap in price.
Also, trying to contact UK customer services by phone, forget it, the line is continuously engaged.
We have used LD for the last 4 channel crossings and have been very happy with the service, but this latest pricing seems to be very strange, especially in light of their advert on the opening page of their website.
Regards to all BC
Posted on: 09 April 2008 by BC from Correze, France
Hi Nick,
Many thanks for your kind comments. I believe the CEO of Steam Packet and also my friend Chris Howe-Davies from HD Ferries, do have their own blog.
Actually this is something I wanted to start at least one year ago, but due to other commitments it has been postponed!
It's in english because 80 percent of our customers are coming from the other side of the Channel. If I wish to be able to reply to all of the messages on my own, it needs to be limited....
Many thanks for your support.
Best personal regards
Pierre Posted on: 09 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Pierre
This BLOG is a real winner and distinguishes LD from its competitors, because no other ferry company does this to my knowledge, especially not at Board level !
My question, however, is why does it appear only on the LD Lines UK website ? It would be good also to see it on the LD Lines French website - and maybe in French too !
We all look forward to the new ship in November.
Best wishes
Nick Posted on: 09 April 2008 by Nick from Salisbury
Dear Linda,
Usually our customers are buying their bulk tickets at the beginning of each year and, as far as I know, they are valid until mid December.
Hi Steven,
It is certainly a good idea indeed but I am afraid it could be quite costly. Assuming our customers would be prepared to support the extra cost, how could we find the french teachers?
I am told that a lady who was interested to deliver french courses contacted our team in Dieppe but this idea did not materialize.
We shall think about it anyway.
All the best
Pierre Posted on: 08 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Pierre
I understand that you were going to start French Lessons on your trips.
I sounds like a superb idea idea. I have discussed it with friends and they also think it is a good idea.
When is it likely to start ? Posted on: 08 April 2008 by Steve from Chailey
Hi Pierre
Thanks for your reply about "the bulk tickets". Could you tell me please, if I purchased a pack of ten crossings in advance would I have to book my trips within a certain time period?
Thanks again.
Linda Posted on: 07 April 2008 by Linda from Derby
Dear Linda,
For our regular travellers we have indeed arranged a special scheme: "the bulk tickets". This program allows our best customers to purchase a pack of ten crossings at very favourable terms (you pruchase the tickets in advance and you book your trips, one by one, when as needed).
The tickets can be passed on to friends or customers etc...
Please contact in due time our team at: lehavretourisme@ldlines.fr and I am quite sure that they will provide you with the necessary information.
Dear Nathalia,
NO, we don't have any intention to call Saint Malo!!! We are presently focusing on the central channel.
According to Via-Michelin Cherbourg-Rennes is 235 kms (of which 187 kms by motorways) when Le Havre - Rennes is 280 kms (of which 264 kms on motorways). So the difference is 55 kms but the travel time should be about the same.
Hello Richard,
You are right indeed and it is exactly why we are studying alternative solutions to the Le Havre-Newhaven service.
We shall come back later on about that subject.
As far as Cherbourg is concerned, I have already replied on a different post.
HI Tony,
Sincerely I don't know anything about it!!
Are we going to teach french to beginners during the crossings?
I have to check with my colleagues, but nobody told me nothing.
Thanks to you all for your kind support,
Pierre Posted on: 07 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Pierre
I've just contacted LD Lines in England to ask about the 'frequent traveller' and they told me that they don't do it any more and they werent aware of what you quoted on the website. We visit our second home about 3 times a year but also have people come with us sometimes, but seperately in their car. I now want to book 3 trips over the next 4 months. I realise I wouldn't qualify for the "the bulk tickets" special scheme because I'm not booking 10 trips at once, but could you tell me if you have to book all ten trips at once, or how long in advance can you book them? Is it so many trips during one year?
Thanks
Linda
Posted on: 06 April 2008 by Linda from Derby
Hello Pierre,
You and your team at LD have done a great job putting the Portsmouth-Le Havre route back on the map and getting Transmanche a little more shipshape!
One question though, with the introduction of the lunchtime crossing to le Havre from Portsmouth and the reintroduction of the sailing from Newhaven, are you not going to create a bit of a long jam at Le Havre next year? It would seem that within 6 hours you will have 3 sailings departing Le Harve for the UK.
Perhaps during the summer months it might it be worth having one crossing to Cherbourg from Portsmouth? I know who I'd prefer to travel with from there if I had the choice!
Regards
Richard C
Posted on: 05 April 2008 by richard c from Manche
Dear Pierre,
I travel to France several times a year (Newhaven - Dieppe) and always considered the 4-hour journey rather tedious so when I heard that French for beginners was to be taught during the voyage crossing , I thought this was an excellent idea. Could you tell me when it is likely to start as I have a trip coming up shortly and would very much like to take part in one of the onboard sessions.
Tony
Posted on: 05 April 2008 by Tony from Newhaven
Would you consider putting on a boat from Portsmouth to St Malo? Brittany Ferries is so terribly expensive. Also they don't do a return night ferry from St Malo to Portsmouth except on Saturdays from November to March.
Can you tell me if it is much further to go from Le Havre to Rennes than it is from Cherbourg to Rennes?
Your company sounds fantastic, but i can't seem to fiknd the price of a cabin. Posted on: 04 April 2008 by Natalia from Oxford
I would just like to praise the staff in Portsmouth they are very helpful and seem to always have a smile on there faces even in the driving ran!
Keep up the great service, cant wait to travel on the new ferry
Michael Posted on: 04 April 2008 by michael from portsmouth
Hi Christiane,
On the website you will find a fleet section providing for each vessel a brief description of cabins and other installations onboard.
Once you have selected your route and dates on our booking engine, you will arrive at step 3 of the booking process. This screens allows you to choose from a list of cabin type (and other installations), if there is no availability for your selected sailing, it will specify "full". Each type of accomodation is an hyperlink you can click on. A pop-up window will provide you with a description and a picture.
Best regards
Pierre Posted on: 03 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
We've recently returned from France after using your Portsmouth Le Havre crossing. Can I heap on my congratulations on your service. The new sleeper beds are so comfortable (although I will take my own pillow next time) and the sleeping area is very peaceful. All your staff, both on-board and on land have been so helpful. I hope you can keep up this standard. Posted on: 03 April 2008 by Margaret from Cardiff
I cannot find any information on the website about cabins. I need to know about availability of them, and cost, and for how many people they hold, in order to consider making a booking. Can you help please? Merci! Posted on: 02 April 2008 by Christiane Lieberman from Scotland, travel from Portsmouth
Hello Stuart,
We do hope that you will really enjoy your lovely cottage and the famous french way of life (presume you have been reading Peter Mayle's various novels...)
For our regular travellers we have indeed arranged a special scheme: "the bulk tickets". This program allows our best customers to purchase a pack of ten crossings at very favourable terms.
I know that some of our customers who are owning properties in France are using that system (the tickets can be passed on to friends or customers etc...).
Please contact in due time our team at lehavretourisme@ldlines.fr .
Bonjour James,
Actually we already have charged some small increase on the sterling fares to compensate for the strong Euro. So it is already done!
On the contrary, since we started end 2005, we have been able to swallow, sofar, the constant increase of the bunker prices.
Thanks to you for supporting LD Lines!
Pierre
Posted on: 02 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Babette,
1. There is absolutely no truth in the fact that we will stop calling Newhaven. The thrice daily service to Newhaven will be kept in 2009 in the same way as in 2008.
With regards to Dieppe/Dover, we have made some ramp trials at Dover to make sure that we can use this port as a back up whenever weather conditions will not allow us to call Newhaven.
2. We unfortunately do not have any conference room on board Seven Sisters or Côte d'Albatre. The size limitation in the port of Newhaven do not permit to operate vessels equipped with such facilities.
Bonne journée
Pierre Posted on: 02 April 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Pierre
I have two questions for you.
1.I have heard rumours that the Newhaven-Dieppe crossing was going to stop, and that LD Lines would soon operate from Dover. Is there any truth in that?
2. Do you have a conference room on board your ferries between Newhaven and Dieppe?
Many thanks.
Bonne journee
Babette Posted on: 02 April 2008 by Babette from Lewes
I often travel on your Portsmouth to Le Havre route and as I've recently bought a lovely cottage in SW France, I expect to use it even more.
Is there a loyalty scheme for second home owners? And if so could I pass on the discount to my friends and family who may also visit?
A simple discount code that would be easy to enter on line perhaps?
BTW your sleeper seats are great!
Regards, Stuart Posted on: 01 April 2008 by Stuart L from Newport South Wales
Dear Pierre,
Are we seeing or are we likely to see sterling prices increasing as a result of the strengthening Euro. Posted on: 01 April 2008 by James Hargreaves from Mamers, France
Dear Elliot,
Many many thanks for your kind and nice comments. I am quite happy to note that you did enjoy a nice experience from your first crossing on Norman Spirit and I do hope that we shall have the pleasure to welcome you onboard again in a not too distant future.
We have no intention to provide a "A la carte restaurant" on our newbuildings. We are trying to keep our fares (and therefore our costs) as competitive as possible and such a service "A la carte" is costly, specially during the low season. I am told that even BAI does not provide any more such a service during the winter months.
The vessel coming in November will have more cabins than the Norman Spirit and our newbuilding (which will be entering service in 2010) will have also more cabins and even some "de luxe" cabins!
Dear Robert,
The Norman Voyager will come into service as from November 1st when the Le Havre Port Authorities will have completed the works to be done to allow such a vessel (182 meters LOA) to call the terminal. The drydock of the Norman Spirit is not a concern, and I wish we could have applied the second ship as from May!!
Dear Dave,
Biarritz is a nice place indeed...
Unfortunately, and although we are presently discussing about a regular service between Gijon and Saint Nazaire, we have no intention to start a line between Portsmouth and Santander-Bilbao. Time being we are focusing on the development of our cross channel activities.
Best regards to all of you and thanks for your support!
Pierre Posted on: 31 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Dear Pierre,we have used your excellent service for 2 years now, but living up here in the north,we have always wished for a reasonably priced Portsmouth-Santander/Bilbao service to get us to Biarritz.Acciona tried it but I think they were forced out by underhand tactics from that bunch of robbing channel bas---ds P&O.Any chance of taking them on? Posted on: 30 March 2008 by dave from blackpool
I note with interest and pleasure the news of a second ship on theLe Havre to Portsmouth service starting in November does this occur as the Norman Spirit normally goes in for it's annual refit and service in November? Posted on: 30 March 2008 by Robert Giles from Mortain, Manche
Hi Pierre,
I sailed onboard the Norman Spirit for the first time last weekend, and very much enjoyed the experience. From check in to disembarkation everything ran smoothly, despite it being a bank holiday weekend. In Le Havre being able to board much earlier than other operators was very welcome too, rather than sitting on the quayside for what sometime feels like hours. Booking late I wasn't surprised that I couldnt get a cabin, but was able to sample a sleeper seat, which was a new experience. Perhaps you could follow Norfolk Line's example here by installing set back tv's to keep people occupied during the crossing - particuarly as there isn't a cinema onboard? Even if it was pay-per view I'm sure it would be popular.
The new ships and routes sound very promising for such a new company too. Two questions I do have about the new ships are, will there be a sit down 'a la carte' restaurant? Whilst Little Italy was nice, I did miss a waiter service restaurant. Finally, it will be nice to have a ship with more cabins, will you be providing any 'de-luxe' style cabins? From experience I know there are very popular, and from looking at the website you do offer 'Commodore' cabins onboard the Dieppe route.
Keep up the good work! Posted on: 30 March 2008 by Elliot from London
Hi James,
Just spoke to the lady in charge in Transmanche's office and she told me that she sent you an e-mail confirming that the bulk ticket scheme will be on sale as from Monday next.
Presume there was some misunderstanding...
In any case please be kind enough to contact our staff at following e-mail address:
emmanuelle.bridiers@transmancheferries.com
Best regards
Pierre Gehanne
Posted on: 28 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
I have just tried to enquire with Transmanche Ferries about the "Bulk ticket scheme" and I have been told that you don't do it.
Could you please clarify what is the situation here.
Thanks. Posted on: 28 March 2008 by James Hargreaves from Mamers, France
Hello Geoff,
Actually I was born in Cherbourg and I am always quite interested by this port and it is true that they always keep complaining about the loss of traffic!
It would be technically possible to call Cherbourg and we could even easily find a third vessel to start a regular service between UK and Cherbourg.
However I am not convinced that the passenger and freigth demand is strong enough to support two operators and Brittany Ferries are already providing many sailings every day.
The situation would be different if BAi was no longer calling Cherbourg.
best regards
Pierre
Posted on: 26 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Paul,
We have indeed conveyed your request about motorhomes on to our commercial department. The problem with the motorhomes is that the fares are really linked to the size of the vehicle (which is not a problem at Dover where they have a lot of capacity available).
Thanks for your support
Pierre Posted on: 26 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Dear Helen,
yes we do have cabins (of course) on the Norman Spirit and we shall also have more cabins on the Norman Voyager (?) which is due to enter service as from November 1st 2008. I must confess, however, that a lot of cabins are already booked over July and August (but you should still be able to find cabins without ensuite facilities). Our sleeper seats (180 degrees reclining) are quite confortable too.
Best regards
Pierre Posted on: 26 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Dear Chris Platts,
Thanks for the compliments which we shall of course convey on to the staff onboard the Cote d'Albatre.
The bulk ticket scheme is now also available on Newhaven-Dieppe.
Please be kind enough to contact our staff at following e-mail address:
emmanuelle.bridiers@transmancheferries.com
Best regards
Pierre Posted on: 25 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Chris from Wales!!
Yes we do have suitable facilities on board the Norman Spirit
(1 en suite disabled cabin consisting of one bed and two berths.*
* Bookings by telephone only upon presentation of a disabled card.)
and I am quite sure that our staff onboard and ashore would certainly assist you and your husband, if useful.
I would suggest that you do contact our Le Havre office: lehavretourisme@ldlines.fr
to make sure that everything is arranged accordingly.
Thanks for your support
Pierre
Posted on: 25 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Good morning Owen,
No we don't plan a fastcraft service from Newhaven. To be honnest we are not convinced that such a service (dedicated to passengers only, no freight) could be economically viable (the constant rising costs of the bunkers does not help either....).
As far as Newhaven - Le Havre is concerned, we do not believe that the demand is good enough to maintain that line during the winter season (this service is fully supported by LD Lines, without any subsidies).
All the best
Pierre Posted on: 25 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Danny,
The layout of the second ship will be different from the Norman Spirit but, however, she will be fitted with sleeper and reclining seats, and also more cabins than the Norman Spirit (110 cabins, at least).
Best regards
Pierre Posted on: 25 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hi Pierre
I and my partner are considering travelling on your Portsmouth - Le Havre route this summer. My partner is in a wheelchair and I was wondering if you have any info regarding the accessability of the ships, cabins, facilities etc.
Rgds
Chris Posted on: 24 March 2008 by Chris from Wales
Bonjour Pierre,
We love LD Lines service, especially the Little Italy restaurant, but unfortunately, due to location, using LD involves extra traveling time & costs on both sides of the channel, so we usually end up on BF, mainly Poole/Cherbourg or sometimes Plymouth/Roscoff. Cherbourg has recently been complaining about loss of traffic through the port. Once you have two ferries in operation, would it be possible for each to do three crossings per day, as P&O did, allowing two returns to Le Havre and one to Cherbourg? Maybe then, LD Lines would be a better choice for us.
Thanks for a great service, when we get to use it
Geoff Posted on: 24 March 2008 by Geoff from Torquay, Devon
Would it be possible to offer some regular user discounts to motorhome (camping car) owners. I travel to France and Spain at least 4 times a year but usually have to go to Dover in order to get reasonable prices. I have used the Newhaven to Dieppe service and returned Le Harve to Portsmouth in the last month and liked the service. I would like to use a daytime service from Portsmouth but you never offer special offer prices to motorhomes, they are only for cars. Posted on: 23 March 2008 by Paul from Isle of Wight
Hi, I am trying to book a trip in the summer July or August or possibly in September I have not seen on any of the booking information that you have cabins, as I would like to book a cabin from the portsmouth end. We then have a 8 hour drive from LeHavre to St Gervais in France. do you have any cabins that can be booked for 2 persons Thankyou Regard Helen Posted on: 23 March 2008 by helen crawford from Midlands
As a regular traveller from Newhaven to Dieppe(I would like to be a frequent traveller but timings/fares don't always work out) I wonder if the "bulk tickets" are available on this route? Also, have you considered reintroducing the fast service (as operated by Hoverspeed) on this route in the summer? I think this blog is a great idea and would also like to compliment the staff of the Cote d'Albatre on the quality of the food on Thursday evening last.
Chris Platts Posted on: 23 March 2008 by Chris from Sussex/Neufchatel en Bray
Pierre,
Thank you for the second crossing from Le Havre. That is great news!. Can you tell me if the layout of the new ship is the same as the Norman Spirit, I.E does it have sleeper seats and club class recliners?
Regards
Danny Posted on: 23 March 2008 by Danny from Meulles,France
Hi Pierre,
The seasonal service from Newhaven to Le Havre is great! But why start from May 1st and miss out on all the Easter school holiday traffic? Surely an earlier start next year could be considered? Keep up the good work and the low fares. Also are there any plans for a fast craft service from Newhaven in the future? Posted on: 22 March 2008 by Owen from Brighton
Good morning Mike!
Yes indeed. We shall have a second sailing from Portsmouth. Around mid day with the new vessel (Norman Voyager ??) and the usual departure with the Norman Spirit at 23h00.
It seems that our customers were really expecting this second sailing and we finally decided to go ahead.
Thanks for your support.
PIERRE Posted on: 21 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
good evening pierre
can you please clear this up as i use ld lines at least once a week! will you be having a second ship running from noon in portsmouth as well as the 23:00 sailing? Or will the norman spirit now be laying over in portsmouth during the day instead of in le harve?
Thanks for the great service hope to hear from you soon so i can plan my sailing times!
All the best Mike Posted on: 20 March 2008 by mike from portsmouth
Hi Judy, Hi Adrian,
Many thanks for your very kind and nice comments. Contrary to what was suggested by Ian (with a good sense of humour) in an earlier blog, we have not been giving "extra discounts" to the customers who are posting nice words! We are tempted to think that it would be interfering with the basic idea of this blog which is to obtain your fair comments and opinions on our service...
Actually it is has been now decided to have a second sailing between Le Havre and Portsmouth. This will start as from November 1st (as soon as Le havre installations are ready for that purpose). As of today the basic idea would be to have this sailing leaving Portsmouth mid day and leaving Le havre around 23h00.
As from 1st of May, we shall also have the daily sailing from Newhaven to Le Havre and return.
If you add to this the 3 daily sailings between Dieppe and Newhaven one can note that we are offering a wide range od departures from both sides of the Channel.
Sofar, and according our various studies, we don't think that there is enough demand to have an early morning departure from Portsmouth.
All the best
Posted on: 20 March 2008 by PIERRE
Dear Pierre,
We have used your service on many occasions and have always been impressed with the service and the price! A day crossing from Portsmouth though would be a great advantage , will you be considering reinstating the 8 am sailing from the P&O days once you have a second ship.
This Summer we are once again using the Newhaven le Havre crossing ( and returning to Portsmouth. )
Adrian Osman Posted on: 18 March 2008 by Adrian Osman from Southampton
I much prefer using LD Lines wherever I can... but the crossings TO the UK get me there too late. I travel alone, and it would mean staying overnight in a hotel (and arriving quite late) so I can get to my London based daytime meetings. Are there any plans to have a daytime/daytime arrival crossing?
I sometimes cross via Newhaven, which is a bit sad looking and desolate... any plans to tidy it up?
The facilities and standards on board your ships are excellent, as are the prices.
Posted on: 17 March 2008 by JudyM from Lisieux
I've been using LD lines from Portsmouth since you took over the route from P&O. You've done a good job and your prices are competitive. Last year I did 4 return journeys with you. One of your bloggers mentioned an incentive scheme or a regular user discount scheme and that may attract back the people that P&O lost and Brittany ferries are losing ...!
I'm encouraged that you have made the route work (you must have if you're going to invest with new ships) so well done for that too.
Lastly, people who write in with kind words on your blog should be given extra discounts (obviously!)
A bientôt!
Posted on: 11 March 2008 by Ian from Bristol
Hi Danny,
Long time no speak. Always good to hear from one of our most frequent travellers!
We always appreciate your support and nice comments which give all of us the motivation to try to continue improving our service.
All the best and be careful on the road
Pierre Posted on: 11 March 2008 by PIERRE from PARIS
Hello Nigel,
For our regular travellers we have arranged a special scheme "the bulk tickets". This program allows our best customers to purchase a pack of ten crossings at very favourable terms.
Of course, we have been thinking about implementing a subscription fee to benefit from this program but we felt that asking our best customers to further improve our cash flow would have been a bit rude.
If you wish to participate to our "bulk ticket" scheme please be kind enough to contact our team at lehavretourisme@ldlines.fr
Thanks for supporting LD Lines
Pierre Posted on: 11 March 2008 by PIERRE from Paris
Pierre,
I have done nearly forty crossings in the last few months and will make another forty before the year is through. Can't fault the service. Always leaves on time and seems to go whatever the weather!Excellent staff and value for money. The sleeper seats are great idea and very comfortable. We just need the second crossing from Le Havre and I'll be very happy. Your sister company of Transmanche are superb but a second crossing from Le Havre will save me a drive to Dieppe.
Finally I must say thank you for having the foresight of starting the block booking scheme. You are one of the only ferries companies to reward frequent travel and this saves me a lot of money throughout the year and allows me to plan my budget knowing that the costs remain constant throught the year.
Regards
Danny Posted on: 09 March 2008 by Danny from Meulles France
Does LD Lines have any plans to offer a fidelity scheme or discounts to regular passengers?
Britany Ferries' (sorry) Property Owners scheme was quite good even though there was a subscription attached; it worked for me until their fares reached the current excessive levels and I started using the Tunnel - then LD. Now it's almost exclusively LD.
The ferry service is good - although the le Havre ferry terminal is a bit bleak. But then, so is Portsmouth.
Regards
Nigel Woodman.
Posted on: 09 March 2008 by Nigel Woodman from Lot & Garonne
Hello Dave,
Thanks for your comments.
Since we started the service in October 2005, the whole team has been trying to actively listen and react to customer's comments. I believe that it did help to improve the service.
As far as I am concerned, I have been participating to the AngloInfo forum and I have always been interested by the remarks from our customers.
I am sorry to understand that you never been told that we had been ordering two new ferries! That proves that our communication needs to be improved!
Anyway we shall keep you posted about the progress.
Pierre Posted on: 05 March 2008 by PIERRE from Paris
Hi Mark,
It will be nice to welcome you for several crossings.
Don't worry you won't need a cabin to charge up your battery. On board Norman Spirit you will easily find some available plugs (british or french standard) in the various lounges. Should you encounter any problem I am sure our crew would help you and I even think that we do have some adaptors in case of need.
All the best
Pierre Posted on: 05 March 2008 by PIERRE from Paris
Hi Pierre,
New Blog looking good, nice to see Companies actively taking an interest in what the customer wants/thinks, well done LD Lines.
Only found out today when looking for the post code of the ferry port in Le Havre that there was a new ferry or hopefully two being built, very good news indeed, please keep us all informed of its progress.
Posted on: 05 March 2008 by Dave from North Staffordshire
Dear Pierre,
I need to use my laptop for several crossings with you this year but as with most laptops the battery only lasts for an hour or so. Is there anywhere we can charge our battery onboard or will I need a cabin?
Thanks
Mark Posted on: 04 March 2008 by Mark Johnson from Portsmouth
Always an excellent service at a very reasonable price. Posted on: 04 March 2008 by ADRIAN OSMAN from SOUTHAMPTON
Dear Richard,
many thanks for your very kind words.
Actually you were the first one to post a message on this blog as we were still on beta testing condition. So congratulations!!
The newbuilding, which is under construction at Singapore (the shipyard will start the work as soon as the building of the second Airbus RoRo will be completed) should be entering the service in June 2010. My colleagues are presently working hard on the design of the public areas and as you may have seen from the model, the vessel should be nice from outside too!
We shall provide some more details regarding the newbuilding in the coming weeks.
Thanks for supporting us
Pierre Posted on: 03 March 2008 by PIERRE from Paris
Dear Pierre,
Love the LD lines Service from Portsmouth and wanted to know when the new ship will be in service?
I cant wait to be one of the first new Passengers to use her.
Also how can i see other messages on your Blog as i cant see where i join lol.
If you can e mail me to the e mail address with Details that would be great.
Keep up the great work at LD lines.
Richard Warner. Posted on: 02 March 2008 by Richard Warner from Devon
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