## Swansea-to-Devon Fast Ferry: Could it Finally Become a Reality?
A fast, zero-emission ferry service linking Swansea with destinations across the south-west of England is being seriously considered, as new research and early engagement reveal widespread public and industry interest.
The potential project is being spearheaded by Ocean Prime Industries Ltd, a company currently conducting a year-long feasibility study into the service. At the helm is chief executive Dave Sampson, whose vision extends well beyond simply reviving the idea of cross-channel travel — he is looking to redefine it in line with 21st-century sustainability goals.
According to Sampson, the aim is to publish a shortlist of possible destinations, as well as a conceptual design for the vessel, by January next year. The initial proposal describes a 55-metre ferry, designed to carry both passengers and vehicles, and some cargo. Uniquely, the craft is intended to achieve speeds of up to 40 knots while being entirely zero-emission, utilising electric propulsion and a shallow draught suitable for varying port conditions.
The feasibility study remains broad at this stage, with Swansea the only confirmed point on the route should the project proceed. When discussing potential ports on both sides of the Bristol Channel and into the Celtic Sea, Sampson remains mindful of practical and commercial factors, stating, “We are not ruling anything in or out.” Essential infrastructure would need to include ramps to manage the embarkation of vehicles and — ideally — shore power to support the environmentally friendly goals of the project.
The prospect of a ferry connection across the Bristol Channel is not entirely new. A previous attempt, known as Severnlink, nearly brought a Swansea–Ilfracombe route to fruition in 2010 before funding shortfalls sunk the project. More recently, Swansea Council has expressed support for hydrogen-powered ferries, and is partially funding Ocean Prime’s study through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
Key to the proposal’s advancement is local enthusiasm. Since the consultation opened in March, about 4,000 people have provided feedback, with an impressive 98% expressing support. Respondents particularly value flexibility — wishing to bring their cars on board and have reliable public transport links at either end. Sampson asserts that even sceptical voices have value: “I quite like the ‘noes’, they tell us more than the ‘yesses’.”
Encouragingly, positive responses have not been limited to the general public. Sampson notes interest from established shipping and logistics companies, fuel providers, and marine engineers, which bodes well for potential commercial partnerships and technical innovation. In the coming months, engagement will continue alongside deeper traffic analysis, research into comparable ferry routes, and rigorous financial modelling to examine possible routes’ economic viability.
However, the region’s challenging weather cannot be ignored. The Bristol Channel is known for its high tidal range and at times, rough seas — with waves sometimes reaching up to 10 metres between Swansea and North Devon, though usually less dramatic. Sampson acknowledges there would be days when the ferry could not operate due to weather but intends for technology and careful ship design to mitigate disruptions wherever possible.
Looking further afield, Sampson does not rule out extending the service to ports in Cornwall, Pembrokeshire, and even Rosslare in south-east Ireland, should public demand materialise. “This is all about customer demand,” he remarks, reinforcing the customer-centred approach being taken.
Ocean Prime Industries is committed to the principle of a clean, zero-emission service, even though Sampson admits this brings significant technical and financial challenge. While hybrid or diesel alternatives could make things simpler, the company is pushing for fully electric or hydrogen options — seeking out technologies that are expected to mature in the next few years.
Finally, the prospect of a Swansea-Devon ferry comes at a time of wider regional infrastructure plans, including tidal lagoon power projects and new government-backed wind power initiatives. Additional future opportunities may include supporting workers commuting to large energy projects in the region.
Sampson, whose diverse career covers marine biology and commercial innovation, has launched a GoFundMe initiative to help fund the ongoing study, emphasising that the project will only proceed on a commercially sustainable basis without reliance on long-term public subsidy.
While caution remains due to past setbacks, there is an evident groundswell of local and industry enthusiasm this time around. Should the feasibility study prove the venture’s value, Swansea could soon be at the epicentre of a new, eco-friendly era of cross-channel transport — a prospect that holds real promise both for South Wales and the West Country.