23 September 2002: Irish Ferries are wooing the over-55s with across-the-board reductions on motorist fares, holidays and travel insurance.

Available is a 10 percent discount on motorist fares, travel insurance and inclusive holidays to Britain plus a 20 percent reduction on motorist fares to France for travel up to June next.

The company is also targeting those with the idea of a quick sail to France to stock up on the wide choice of wines, beer and other festive cheer that is available there at very attractive prices.

To cater for this pre-Christmas shopping market, Irish Ferries have brought back their traditional E99 per person return mini cruise to France which promises up to six hours ashore in Cherbourg plus two nights en-suite cabin accommodation on their Rosslare - Cherbourg route. A car fare of 39 EURO extra return applies when two or more adults are travelling together. A 20% discount is available to over-55s.

Leaving Rosslare at 17.00 hrs every Wednesday and Friday evening until Christmas, shoppers arrive Cherbourg at lunchtime next day with up to six hours ashore for bargain hunting before departing for home at 20.00hrs.

Close to the port is a giant French hypermarket and numerous wine cellars wdere passengers can easily recoup the cost of their fare with the savings that can be made on the extensive range of wines available.