Ramsgate ferry will not start this year

​The hotly-anticipated high speed ferry service between Ramsgate and Boulogne will not now begin until next year.

Euroferries had originally planned to launch the new service in March 2009 but was forced to put back the date several times.

On Wednesday (November 25) the firm announced that the route will now begin in 2010.

An exact start date for the service, which will use the Fred Olsen catamaran The Bonanza Express, has not been released.

A spokesman said: “Euroferries is working with all relevant parties to provide both the local community and future customers with the quality of main stream travel service that they expect.

"Key benefits including free travel insurance and pre-boarding lounge facilities with tax free shopping and café add to the special experience promised to a Euroferries traveller.”

Both ports say they are ready to host the ship.

Euroferries refused to confirm rumours that the delays were due difficulties in leasing the ferry, which is currently in Tenerife, from Fred Olsen.

Passengers who have booked on the service this year will have their money refunded.