In the early 1980s, long before the arrival of the Channel Tunnel, competion in the cross-channel ferry market was intense. Following the announcement that Sealink had placed orders for three new vessels with twin freight decks, Townsend Thoreson acted immediately to update their fleet, which at the time was comprised of an eclectic collection of vessels, of all shapes and sizes.
Townsend Thoreson placed an order for three identical ‘Spirit’ class vessels, which completely revolutionised the design of cross-Channel ferries. At 8,000 tons and with a maximum speed of 22 knots, these new ships were capable of five return journeys between Dover and Calais in 24 hours, carrying nearly 40,000 passengers and over 10,000 cars in a single day. Unhindered by the constraints of bureaucracy and state intervention, the trio entered service months ahead of their rivals.
Remembering the Pride of Free Enterprise is the complete story of the third and final ship in the Spirit class, which was a key player in the heyday of roll-on, roll-off ferries. The tragic loss of sister ship `Herald of Free Enterprise’ at Zeeburugge in March 1987 set in motion a world-wide investigation into the operation of all roll on- roll off fleets. Valuable lessons were learnt and the ‘Pride’ went on to serve the local fleet for 20 years after which, under new ownership, she successfully operated for a further 15.
Well illustrated in colour. Also includes technical specifications, a year-by-year chronology and reproductions of important documents relating to the vessel’s history. 60 pages.