Travel test

WHAT: Overnight ferry and return day crossing onboard Brittany Ferries’ ship Armorique. Fom £315 return for two people and a car including a two-berth cabin on the outward overnight sailing from Portsmouth to St Malo, brittanyferries.com, 0330 159 7000. WHERE: Portsmouth-St Malo. EXPERIENCE: Arriving at Portsmouth 90 minutes before departure we joined the queues of vehicles waiting to check-in at Passport Control. Armed with more paperwork and apps than usual, we assumed the process would be slower. It wasn’t. We were through in 30 minutes and unlocking our four-berth outside cabin with ensuite shower 20 minutes before the ship set sail.

It was exciting chugging out of port right behind Virgin Voyages’ new cruise ship, Scarlet Lady, with its party music playing. From the deck, we also got to see the Mary Rose Museum, HMS Victory and

Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower, which put on a show with its colour-changing lights.

Back inside, masks were required when walking around. There were plenty of tables in the bar, a live singer, two cinemas, shops, games area and quiet zone decorated in cheerful blues.

We managed seven hours’ sleep before being woken by gentle Breton folk music piped through speakers, along with dual language announcements telling you to return to your car.

Passport Control in St Malo was slick. After queueing for 10 minutes, we were driving through the French countryside to our accommodation in Carantec, two hours west. Our return leg on Armorique in the morning sun was fabulous, with views of the old town, beaches and cathedral.

We also enjoyed seafood platters from Le Cafe, with nuggets and chips for the kids, which cost £30 for four including desserts and drinks.

VERDICT: Brittany Ferries has made it easy for passengers to navigate this new phase of travel by having well-drilled staff at the ports and on board. 9/10