PASSENGER ferries are sailing from Ramsgate again with the launch of a new service to Ostend.

The TransEuropa shipping line is offering the only direct passenger service between Belgium and the English channel ports.

The four-hour crossing is being marketed at those who wish to relax on their Channel crossing.

The operators are also promoting the fact that the ferry provides easier access to Northern European countries including Belgium, Germany, Holland and Denmark.

It is the first passenger service at the port for six years, but in the meantime, Ramsgate New Port has become established as a successful freight-shipping centre.

It has been owned and run by Thanet District Council's Maritime Services Division since 1998, and in that time freight activity has trebled.

Thanet Council's Cabinet Member for regeneration, economic development and maritime services, Cllr Bob Bayford, said: "The launch of the passenger service highlights the importance of this route, which is the only direct link between the English Channel ports and Belgium.

"It also strengthens Ramsgate's emerging position as a gateway to the continent, as highlighted by the recent arrival of EUjet at Kent International Airport Manston.

"Since the council took over Ramsgate New Port, we have developed a successful freight business which provides the springboard for this service. It also places us in a position to capitalise on the projected shortfall in Channel port capacity, as demonstrated by the recent SEAPORTS study. The agreement of this new passenger service is evidence of the success of our policy to market Ramsgate as a viable gateway to Europe."

Of the 26 municipal ports in England and Wales, only Portsmouth has a higher turnover.