Hibernia Line has announced a new year-round ferry service connecting Ringaskiddy in Cork with Boulogne-sur-Mer in northern France, creating a new direct link between Ireland and mainland Europe for both passengers and freight.
The company confirmed that bookings are now open for the service, which will begin operating from mid-June 2026. Two vessels, the ‘St Patrick’ and the ‘MV Akka’, will run six sailings per week in each direction.
The route is designed to provide a reliable and practical alternative for travellers and freight operators seeking direct access between Ireland and continental Europe.
Evening Departures Designed For Convenience
Hibernia Line said the schedule has been built around straightforward overnight departures. Passengers travelling from Cork will board at 9pm and arrive in France the following evening after travelling overnight in onboard cabins.
In the opposite direction, sailings will depart Boulogne-sur-Mer at 10pm CET before arriving in Cork the next day.
The company expects the route to carry more than 250,000 passengers annually as demand for direct European connections continues to grow.
Hundreds Of Jobs To Be Created
Headquartered in Cork, Hibernia Line says the new service will create up to 250 immediate jobs across Ireland and France, including around 200 crew positions.
Some of the roles will be filled by cadets from the National Maritime College of Ireland in Ringaskiddy, strengthening links between the new ferry operation and maritime training in Ireland.
The project is backed by the Goodman Group, reflecting confidence in the long-term commercial potential of the new route.
Government Welcomes New European Link
Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Seán Canney, described the service as an important boost for Ireland’s connectivity with mainland Europe.
He said improved direct routes help support stronger supply chains, ease pressure on existing ports and offer greater flexibility for businesses and passengers.
Canney also welcomed the investment for its contribution to regional development, employment and more reliable transport links between Ireland and Europe.
Focus On Reliability And Freight Efficiency
Hibernia Line founder and chief executive Aidan Coffey said the company’s priority is to make passenger travel and freight transport between Ireland and Europe more dependable.
“The focus is on consistency, frequency and a service that works for both freight and passengers,” Coffey said.
Drawing on his experience in freight, shipping and construction, Coffey said the service was designed to reduce disruption caused by congestion, capacity shortages and delays, while also improving onboard comfort and driver welfare.
The launch marks another step in the expansion of direct sea links between Ireland and mainland Europe as operators continue responding to changing travel and logistics demand.
