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HSS back in service

The HSS "Stena Explorer" returned to service on Saturday 24th February after its annual early New Year service and refit in Holyhead. The HSS will operate two round trips each day, sailing from Dun Laoghaire to Holyhead at 1110 in the morning and 1800 in the evening. Sailings from Holyhead are at 0855 and 1530.

The HSS will be approaching and berthing in the Harbour between approximately 1015 and 1040 and between approximately 1705 and 1730 each day. It is particularly important that sailors and boat users in and around the Harbour take note of these sailing times and stay far away from the HSS on its entry to and departure from the Harbour.

Study to evaluate future demand and location for marina berths

Marina Expansion Underway

The Harbour Company has appointed consultants to undertake a new study to evaluate the potential future demand for marina berths in Dun Laoghaire Harbour and to identify possible locations within the Harbour for future marina development.

The study began in December last year and will include an extensive consultation process with Harbour stakeholders and other interested parties. It will be conducted by Fisher Associates in association with Marina Projects and HR Wallingford. The study is expected to take approximately 13 weeks to complete.

The study is separate to the planned expansion of the current marina by 240 berths on which work has already begun. When completed, the marina will be the largest in Ireland.

The Harbour Company has been at the forefront of marina development in the country and its decision to undertake the study is driven by the significantly increased demand for marine leisure activities in recent years. This growth is projected to continue. Ireland's marine tourism industry is estimated to be worth €631 million, and the Irish Marine Federation forecasts that the marine leisure sector in Ireland could grow by 30% between 2005 and 2008.

Work currently underway on the marina expansion.

The study will be made up of a number of elements:

  • - a market study to examine current and likely future trends and demands

  • - identification of the short, medium and long term scope for development in terms of what capacity can be provided and when

  • - examination of issues and priorities on hydrographic and navigation issues

  • - identification of infrastructural options, associated requirements and environmental impact

  • - consultation meetings with stakeholders in the Harbour including the yacht clubs, Commissioners of Irish Lights, Stena Line, the Naval Service, the marina operating company and existing marina berth holders representatives.

Commenting on the study, Michael Hanahoe, Chief Executive of the Harbour Company said: "There is clearly a high demand for marina space and this important study will allow the Company to consider future developments in the Harbour in an integrated and planned way."
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