A new ferry service has been launched from Harwich to Germany with the promise of a multi-million pound boost for the area.
DFDS has replaced its Harwich-Hamburg service with the faster Harwich-Cuxhaven route.
It shaves three hours off the sailing time and ferry bosses are confident it will boost tourism in both countries.
John Crummie, DFDS Seaways' managing director, said the benefits of the new route were an early morning arrival, close links to the German motorway network and Cuxhaven itself, which is a popular beach and health resort.
It is the only direct passenger shipping route from Britain to Germany.
Mr Crummie: "We are bringing some pretty tangible benefits to the local economy and to local residents.
He estimated there would be an extra income of at least £20 million in the region due to the extra passengers and the money they would be spending.
Published Monday, March 4, 2002
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