With the UK entering a transition or implementation period while its future relationship with the EU is negotiated, current arrangements remain in place and nothing changes until at least 31^st December 2020.

Speaking on behalf of the Port and the two ferry operators, Doug Bannister, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, said: “To our tourist customers, whether it is for Easter, summer or Christmas getaways, weekend breaks or day trips, I would like to reassure you that nothing changes this year, so you can book your ferry tickets and travel with confidence.”

“For our freight customers, it’s business as usual throughout 2020 with no new documentation needed.  With over half of the freight using Dover heading beyond London, we continue to support businesses and consumers across all parts of the nation.”

Mr Bannister added: “As the negotiations move forward, we will be working hard to ensure we are prepared for 2021 and beyond so that customers can continue to enjoy the benefits of choosing the Port of Dover and ferry services provided by P&O Ferries and DFDS on the shortest sea crossing.”

“The investment in new dedicated ships being committed by both ferry operators to the cross-Channel route also demonstrates long-term confidence in Dover.”

Kasper Moos, Vice President and Head of Short Routes & Passenger, DFDS, said: ‘We are confident we have done all we can to prepare and ensure that trade continues to flow between the UK and Europe. The Port of Dover continues to be very important to DFDS and our support for Dover can be seen with our introduction of a new vessel, the COTE D'OPALE, on this route in early summer 2021.”

David Stretch, Managing Director – Short Routes at P&O Ferries, added: “We have consistently said that as long as there are families and freight travelling between Britain and Europe, P&O Ferries will continue to provide a comprehensive ferry and logistics service to and from the continent. I am confident that our hugely experienced team will maintain a punctual, reliable and efficient service for our customers throughout the coming years, whatever the final relationship between the UK and EU.”

Mr Bannister concluded: “In the meantime, enjoy sailing over from Dover with confidence in 2020.”