Norfolkline's Dover-Dunkerque passenger operation was inaugurated in May 2000.

The Northern Merchant was used to introduce the service and was joined by the Midnight Merchant in late summer of 2000. Both these ships were built in 2000. In autumn of 2002, the Dawn Merchant, built in 1998, joined the route, allowing up to ten return crossings a day.  All three vessels are 22000 tonnes identical sister ships and the fleet is among the most modern operating on the Channel routes.

The Northern Merchant and Midnight Merchant have been modified to provide double deck loading and faster turn-round times. More sailings, greater capacity, faster turn round times – and still the same outstanding quality of personal service that is the hallmark of the Norfolkline operation.

Introducing the shape of the future - three new state of the art ferries will join our fleet by June 2006. The first two will enter service in September and December 2005. The ships will be bigger, more luxurious, faster and have been designed specifically for the Dover – Dunkerque route. They will also have completely separate relaxation and vehicle decks for both tourist and freight customers.