Holyhead Port Closure Disrupts Christmas Travel

The Holyhead ferry port in Wales will remain closed until at least January 15, 2025, following severe damage from Storm Darragh, disrupting travel plans for an estimated 150,000 passengers hoping to reach Ireland for Christmas. The port's closure has forced many travelers to make costly alternative arrangements, with some reporting significant increases in travel expenses. The damage includes a partial collapse of Terminal 3, necessitating underwater inspections to assess the structural integrity of adjacent terminals. This closure not only affects passenger travel but also logistics, significantly impacting trade routes between Great Britain and Ireland, including the supply of goods like Guinness and cheese. Authorities are urging airlines to avoid excessive fare hikes, while the Irish government is working on alternative transport options. Concerns about long-term economic effects are rising, with fears that the port may not reopen before St. Patrick's Day.