Families who sail together, sit together…that’s the message from Irish Ferries in the wake of airlines’ new seating charges whose effect is to split up families who’d much prefer to be together on the aircraft.

According to Irish Ferries’ head of passenger sales, Declan Mescall: “Travelling by air with children or elderly family members can be a nightmare with the horrendous combination of booking/seating charges, long check-ins and baggage restrictions, plus increased APD.

“Travel on our modern, fast fleet is now an enjoyable part of the whole holiday experience with short check-in times, no baggage restrictions and a host of family-friendly facilities including a ‘sit where you like’ policy. Prices start from as little £116 for a midweek crossing in July for car, two adults and two children.”