Fastnet Line reinstitutes ferry service between Cork and Swansea beginning March 2010.  The Ei2GBW and GB2Ei special event stations celebrate the return of this historical link between Ireland and Wales. 

Ferry service between Cork and Wales began in 1896 and ceased 110 years later in 2006 when the previous operator of the service was unable to replace its ferry ship.  A new operator, Fastnet Line, was formed by local business leaders in early 2009 and has purchased the MV Julia, pictured below, which will serve the route beginning in 2010.

From 1896 until 1983, this historical ferry link between Cork and Wales was provided by five successive ships named Innisfallen.  Pictured at the top of this page is the third Innisfallen, which served the route from 1948 to 1967.  This ship, known affectionately to locals as D'Innis, brought a new style and class to the route. 

The fourth Innisfallen, pictured below on her launch day, was in service from 1969 to 1980.  She was purpose-built for the run between Cork and Wales and sailed seven days each week.  After transferring service from Fishguard to Swansea, she connected with fast trains running from Swansea to London.  Motorists could now drive straight off on arrival.  This, perhaps the most famous of the ships called Innisfallen, displaced 4,848 gross tons and had a service speed of 24 1/2 knots.  She was the fastest ferry in the world when she entered service.

Although not yet certain, it is hoped that the Julia will become the sixth Innisfallen.  Julia is a massive 21,699 gross tons with ten decks and four restaurants.  She begins regular service on 1 March 2010.

Ei2GBW, GB2Ei and G2YC/MM will be QRV from time to time through the start of service, including ongoing daily operations (see below for operating locations).  Visit us again to learn about upcoming public days in Cork and Swansea and /MM operations.

Operators are John Ei9JO in Cahirciveen, Co. Kerry (IO41VW), Tim Ei2KA in Baltimore, Co. Cork (IO51HL), Conor Ei4JN in Templemartin, Co. Cork (IO51OT) and maybe a few others.

QSL cards are sent via the bureau unless you need one sooner.  If so, please send $2 along with a self-addressed envelope to QSL manager Ei9JO as shown above.  We do not use eQSL or LoTW.

Thanks for looking us up and hope to work you soon.

73 from the special event team Ei2GBW

Flag Counter added 30 Oct 09