You could take a FERRY between Wales and Devon soon
Plans for a hydrogen-powered ferry linking Swansea with Devon are back on the table, more than a decade after a similar proposal failed to launch.
Swansea Council, working with Ocean Prime Industries Ltd, is exploring the viability of a fast, zero-emission ferry crossing the Bristol Channel – potentially slashing travel times between South Wales and the South West of England.
Severn Link
The idea isn’t new. In 2010, Severn Link came close to launching a high-speed service between Swansea and Ilfracombe, but financial difficulties forced the project to stall. Now, with green technology advancing and political momentum behind decarbonisation, the concept is resurfacing in a more sustainable form.
Could it happen?
A 12-month feasibility study is currently underway, supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and the Swansea Labour-led council. Ocean Prime Industries’ CEO Dave Sampson has revealed that a shortlist of destinations and vessel designs is expected by January 2026.
The ferry being considered would be around 55 metres long, able to carry passengers, vehicles, and some cargo at speeds of up to 40 knots. Power would come from clean hydrogen or electricity, with an emphasis on zero emissions and efficient operation.
Where would it leave from?
Ilfracombe has been named as one of the most likely English ports. The town has historic ferry links and could become a key interchange if new port infrastructure is developed. Other potential sites under review include Minehead in Somerset.
How would it be green?
The ferry concept is being explored alongside the Blue Eden development on Swansea’s waterfront – an integrated energy and housing scheme that includes tidal lagoon power, floating solar arrays, and a hydrogen generation plant.
Council leader Rob Stewart has suggested the ferry project could be powered by hydrogen created on-site, making it a showcase for locally produced green energy.
Is there public interest?
While the scheme is still in its early stages, public interest has been high. Ocean Prime reports over 4,000 responses to its consultation since March 2025, with 98% expressing support. The majority of respondents favoured a service that accommodates cars and connects well to public transport on both sides of the channel.
Considerations of the project
Environmental considerations remain central to the project. The Bristol Channel is known for its strong tides and occasional rough conditions.
Mr Sampson acknowledged that wave heights between Swansea and North Devon can reach 10 metres in winter, though more typical conditions would allow for regular service throughout most of the year.
Designing a ferry that can operate in a variety of sea states is a key part of the engineering brief.
What it could look like
If successful, the Swansea–Devon ferry could offer a faster, cleaner alternative to the congested M5 route.
It would also open new visitor flows in both directions – not just for holidaymakers, but also for commuters and businesses.
The final feasibility report will determine whether the concept has enough backing, infrastructure potential, and passenger demand to become a reality.
