Superfast VII

Loading and disemmbacation process is very lengthy. Only two sets of stairs for this huge vessel. Journey time is more than Stena Voyager. A cup of tea costs £2.50. Less frequent crossings . Stena Voyager is far better in my opinion.

More [+] More [-]

Very classy, plenty of room and very state of the art. Stena again has shown great aspects of customer comfort and detail. My biggest issues are disembarkation times. For a ship that takes 2hours 15mins to cross the water, i was left both on my outgoing and incoming journeys for a horrendous 15mins before the car deck doors even opened. The fact that this ship only has two very narrow stairwell makes for cramped and intense disembarkation. Other than that can't complain although in my opinion the Stena Line HSS was the best ferry experience we have ever had.

More [+] More [-]

As a regular traveller between Belfast and Scotland, I would like to make following observations about the new Superfast service, in comparison to the previous H.S.S. ferry service: 1. Embarkation and disembarkation was originally much slower on the new service than the previous one, however on my more recent trips this seems to have been sorted out, and punctuality has seen a marked improvement. In comparison, the H.S.S. service, although operating at higher speed, was frequently running late, with a knock-on effect to later services on the route. 2. Embarkation and disembarkation of foot passengers takes place by way of a long gangway at both ports(quite a long walk!). This is not ideal for elderly or disabled passengers, perhaps this could be improved by the installation of travellator walkways(such as at most large airports) 3. Passenger accommodation on new service is more spacious and comfortable than previous service, TV lounge is a great idea, comfortable seating and free Wifi a great way to pass the time on the crossing 4. One huge negative, however, is your new "Taste" catering facility. On the "Food City" on the H.S.S. service, the food was freshly cooked and generally fairly appetising(if a little overpriced), however this latest effort has to be one of the most disappointing food experiences I have ever had. It seems that all the food is re-heated, wrapped in tinfoil and passed on to customers as fresh. in fact the standard of food on offer would make my local McDonalds look like a candidate for a Michelin star!! And also horribly overpriced! (£4.95 for a dried up microwaved chicken burger, for goodness sake!) 5. Shopping and Bar provision is on a par with your previous service, bar is in a good location at front of ferry, with panoramic views of our progress across the channel. Bar can sometimes become a bit rowdy with drunken travellers(especially football and rugby supporters) although this no fault of the ferry operator. However, extra staff seem to be employed on these occasions to try and keep a lid on it! Although with the size of the ferries, its not difficult to find a quiet spot if you so desire! 6. The provision of a "spa" and cabins is a nice touch, although on such a short crossing, one wonders how many people will actually use these facilities!! In summary, quite a few improvements, however a couple of negatives that could be improved with a bit of thought(especially the food!) Im sure Stenaline realise that a lot of people will have been travelling for quite a few hours before boarding their ferries, and looking for a filling and tasty meal only to be confronted by this disgrace! I wonder how many Stena line decision makers have actually tried their new "taste" experience..

More [+] More [-]