PREPARATIONS are underway for Britain’s annual National Ferry Fortnight will take place 2 – 16 March.

Now in its fifth year the campaign is supported by the 13 ferry line members  of the Passenger Shipping Association.

The two week showcase was created to heighten consumer and media awareness of Britain’s extensive ferry services of more than 50 routes.

This year, National Ferry Fortnight is encouraging consumers to experience the ease, value and flexibility of ferry travel.

More than 34 million passengers travel by ferry annually and ferry companies have invested millions in modern, versatile fleets and upgraded services.

With spas, first-class lounges and fine dining restaurants onboard some ships, now is the time for passengers to jump onboard and discover the new face of ferries.

Central to the campaign will be promotional offers on ferry routes to France, Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Spain, Ireland, UK, the Channel Islands, Isle of Wight, Isle of Man and Scottish islands which will be announced  on www.discoverferries.com.

PSA director Bill Gibbons said: “Britain’s ferry services offer a reliable and flexible way to travel and represent great value."

“We’ve chosen the new theme ‘ferry familiar’ to encourage even more people to get onboard and try ferry travel for the first time – having sailed once, we’re sure they will see the great benefits of ferry travel which include no hidden costs."

He added: "National Ferry Fortnight offers a real showcase for our industry to highlight the huge investment that has been committed to providing a relaxed and versatile way of travel, particularly for families in their cars.”

To get ‘ferry familiar’, watch out for details of special National Ferry Fortnight offers released nearer the date on www.discoverferries.com/nff2013.