Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson today welcomed the news that Norfolkline is taking bookings for its new Rosyth-Zeebrugge service.

Norfolkline have also confirmed that sailings on the route are due to begin on May 18, 2009.

Stewart Stevenson said: "The launch of the booking service is great news for passengers, tourists and businesses who can now plan their travel with confidence.


"With our year of Homecoming just weeks away, this is a major boost. Visitors from Europe can now make plans to join in our Homecoming celebrations. We have a unique opportunity with Norfolkline to get the ferry off to the best possible start through encouraging friends and family from Europe to travel to Scotland using this new ferry service.

"Maintaining connections with major European markets is vital for Scotland, particularly during these challenging economic times. The route has so far carried nearly one million passengers, 4.2 million tonnes of freight and made a significant contribution to Scotland's tourist industry. "

The Transport Minister wished Norfolkline, Forth Ports, freight operators and the many passengers who will sail the Rosyth-Zeebrugge route great success.

(GK/JM)