Working Conditions Aboard the Seven-Sisters

On July 8, 2018, ferry operations between Newhaven and Dieppe were temporarily halted due to a technical issue affecting the ramp at Newhaven. The DFDS Seaways France vessel, named 'Seven Sisters' (IMO: 9256257), had departed from Dieppe approximately two hours prior, carrying around 400 passengers. While the ferry was navigating the waters between the French and English coastlines, a request to dock at Dover was made, only to find that the berth was occupied and unavailable for use. In light of this setback, DFDS Seaways opted to turn the ferry back to Dieppe, where it safely arrived at 10:30 p.m. To accommodate the stranded travelers, the company swiftly arranged alternate solutions for reaching England via the ports of Calais or Dunkirk, where further DFDS connections are available. Passengers traveling with vehicles were advised to make their own way to these ports, while those journeying on foot were provided bus transport. As a result of the disruption, all ferry traffic between Dieppe and Newhaven was rerouted to Calais and Dunkirk, ensuring that passengers could still reach their destinations.

On the evening of September 30, a dramatic rescue unfolded in Newhaven when two people were swept off a pontoon into the water due to the wash from a tugboat towing the disabled ferry 'Seven Sisters.' The incident occurred shortly before 5 p.m. after the ferry, which had encountered technical difficulties on the morning of September 27, was scheduled to be towed to the scrap berth to clear the ramp for the incoming 'Cote D’Albatre.' As the 'Seven Sisters' was being maneuvered away, the powerful wash from the tugboat unexpectedly knocked two individuals into the water. Quick-thinking bystanders summoned the Newhaven RNLI Lifeboat and the Coastguard Rescue Team to assist in the situation. Rescuers promptly located the two individuals, who were examined by the South East Coast Ambulance Service. One individual required further medical attention and was subsequently transported to the hospital for treatment. In the aftermath, the lifeboat conducted a thorough search of the marina to ensure no one else had been affected by the incident. This event highlights the potential dangers associated with maritime operations and the critical response efforts by local rescue teams. For more details, you can view the report and accompanying photos here: http://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/news/county-news/two-people-rescued-from-the-water-after-ferry-incident-1-6986882.

Business leaders are expressing enthusiasm over the revival of day trips on the Newhaven to Dieppe ferry service. Once a popular excursion option, these trips were discontinued in 2009 due to scheduling changes and the removal of the second vessel, the Seven Sisters. However, DFDS Seaways has revealed plans to reinstate the Seven Sisters for the summer season starting in May, allowing for an increase in daily return sailings to three, thereby making day trips a reality once more. This development comes amid ongoing uncertainty for the ferry service, as the contract permitting DFDS to operate on behalf of Syndicate Mixte de Promotion de L’Activite Transmanche (SMPAT) was recently extended until the end of the current year. Annie Lorys, President of the Newhaven Chamber of Commerce, expressed her satisfaction with the announcement: "I am delighted at the development of having two ships running on the route and that day trips are possible again." With this reinstatement, local businesses are hopeful for a boost in tourism and related economic activity.