The mv Cote d'Albatre was built in 2006 as the first of two sisters designed specifically for the historic Newhaven to Dieppe route. Ordered by the the Seine Maritime local council who have since 2001 operated the service between Newhaven and Dieppe under the banner of Transmanche Ferries. The service was plagued by incidents, poor service and late running ships until in 2007 following the route being placed out to tender.
The winner of the tender was the new name on the Western Channel LD Lines. Since LD Lines have taken over, albeit with the Newhaven to Dieppe route still being operated separately and under the name of Transmanche Ferries, has turned around and carryings are improving and reliability back at high levels. |