Brittany Ferries unveils 'dating site for holidaymakers'

Brittany Ferries is aiming to provide customers with greater experiences once they disembark from the channel crossing by setting up a digital platform designed to match holidaymakers with local hosts offering bespoke trips and outings in their destination.

Livelocal.fr is part of Brittany Ferries’ diversification strategy and draws on the company’s mission to enrich regions and to reveal top destinations to travellers.

The site features hosts offering a range of cultural, sporting and heritage activities. While currently focused on the Brittany and Aquitaine regions of France, if successful, the firm says it will expand the site to all locations in the so-called Atlantic Arc, covering Ireland, Spain and the UK.

Brittany Ferries CEO Christophe Mathieu said: “Livelocal is a project that is all about the three Ds: diversification, digital and destination. Think of it like a dating website for travellers, introducing them to memory-makers in the form of local hosts who offer a holiday activity that’s exciting and sustainable.

“It’s not about replacing what makes a destination attractive like its beautiful beaches, historic castles or fantastic shopping. It’s about surfacing some of the best-kept secrets known only by those living and working locally. It will help turn a good holiday into a truly great one.”

The portfolio is actively seeking more participants. Mathieu added: “We are looking for hosts who want to pass on their passion for their region, through their local knowledge. What could be more rewarding than sharing your love for la pelote basque or by introducing a novice surfer to the best waves on the Atlantic coast?

“We’ve learnt over the last 50 years that the more we build connections, the better the experience for everyone. We’ve enriched the regions in which we operate, and now we hope to enrich more of the individuals who live and work within them.”