Posted on 11/05/2021 18:59
Brittany Ferries are contemplating starting a new route from Plymouth to Porto. It could help some get around the travel restrictions but I’m not sure I’d fancy a 30 hour crossing!
https://www.business-live.co.uk/enterprise/brittany-ferries-mulls-sailings-portugal-20572719
1 person likes this
Posted on 11/05/2021 19:54
A bit short termism if they're only doing it because of Covid restrictions.
24 hours or 30 hours. Not much in it as long as it's only 1 night sleepover as far as I'm concerned. A lot of people go on far longer cruises, albeit with a tad more comfort (one would hope).
Posted on 11/05/2021 19:54 by WherenextA bit short termism if they're only doing it because of Covid restrictions.
24 hours or 30 hours. Not much in it as long as it's only 1 night sleepover as far as I'm concerned. A lot of people go on far longer cruises, albeit with a tad more comfort (one would hope).
Posted on 11/05/2021 20:08
If it happens watch out for additional costs. I’ve just booked a couple of flights to Gibraltar to visit family and the cost of the required 3x Covid tests for two exceeds the cost of the flights!
That said, Porto is a fine destination in its own right and well located for an Iberian touring holiday.
Posted on 11/05/2021 20:57
I've just rebooked my flexi ticket for Portsmouth - Santander for December on the new Galicia. It is indeed now a 30 hour crossing, so an alternative crossing to Porto may be an attractive route into Spain from the west.
Incidentally, my crossing is £46 cheaper than previous bookings?!
JK
Posted on 11/05/2021 20:08 by SeasideBillIf it happens watch out for additional costs. I’ve just booked a couple of flights to Gibraltar to visit family and the cost of the required 3x Covid tests for two exceeds the cost of the flights!
That said, Porto is a fine destination in its own right and well located for an Iberian touring holiday.
Posted on 12/05/2021 12:31 byThere is some optimism from BF about France and Spain coming off the "naughty step" and they have said on their website they are urgently looking at how they can help with tests but still sound a little cautious as to what they can achieved so if it has to be a private test organized by one self so be it .
Bill can I ask what arrangements have you made for the tests?
Posted on 12/05/2021 13:49
High testing costs seem to driven by the UK rather than the green list countries. For example, Gibraltar (arrangements are still a bit vague), intend to accept a vaccine passport for entry (NHS App) instead of test. Presumably if you can’t provide this you’ll need to arrange and pay for a test before arrival? This is still subject to official confirmation.
Returning to the UK requires 2 PCR tests; one within 72hrs of departure and a further test on day 2 of arrival in the UK. Gibraltar are offering the departure test at the airport for £50 per person. The day 2 test needs to be booked and paid for with an Approved Provider in the UK. They currently charge upwards of about £170 for the test (might be less under new arrangements)! These costs have effectively doubled the cost of my Gibraltar trip, but I don’t care as I’m going to see my new grandchild 😀
I would expect the UK test fees to apply to Portugal, but the pre-departure test will be subject to local arrangements?
Tinwheeler
Campervanner from Cornwall