by Graham Tutthill

The new seacat service between Dover and Boulogne has been launched.

It had been feared the launch would have to be put back for a week because of a delay in certification. But all the documentation was completed on time, and the launch took place on Saturday morning as planned.

The 112-metre wave-piercing catamaran Norman Arrow, which is being operated by LD Lines under the British flag, is the largest fast craft ever to operate on the Channel.

It is making four return trips a day, in addition to the two services operated by LD Lines' conventional ferry, Cote d'Albatre.

Norman Arrow can carry up to 1,200 passengers, 417 cars or combination of up to 30 freight vehicles and 195 cars. Crossing time will be one hour.