29 October 2002: Irish Ferries has become the first Irish ferry company to adopt text messaging technology as a means of transmitting urgent messages to customers.

Used during periods of high winds and adverse weather conditions, text messaging is used to alert passengers booked to travel on sailings that are likely to be cancelled or delayed.

To operate the service, passengers are invited to provide their mobile telephone number which is then fed into the reservations system. When sailings are at risk, a simple message is prepared and transmitted to all concerned followed by updates as required.

With mobile technology effective across international borders, the service has proven to be most effective in reaching motorists who may be driving through Ireland, UK or Continental Europe.