THE designers of a new high-speed ferry service between Europe and Sheerness will be the main attraction at a conference on ports and ferries.

Bateaux Grande Vitesse is a new concept in moving freight by fast craft between a number of countries, with Sheerness being its British hub.

Organisers of the Ports and Ferries - Partners in 21st Century European Trade conference on June 13 and 14 have invited the BGV designers to present a paper on progress following a £270million order at the end of last year for three cargo and two mixed use vessels by Dover-based Chikara Shipping.

The 60-mph craft are due to inaugurate fast ferry services on the Boulogne maritime hub system linking Norway, the United Kingdom and Spain in 2008.

Bill Moses, conference organiser, said: "Specific feedback has resulted in us inviting the originators of the BGV concept, a subject that we expect to be of particular interest to ferry operators and ports alike."

He added that the conference would be a stimulating blend of academic analysis and commercial experience, with emphasis on the developing fast ferry sector. Delegates will be taken on a fast ferry trip on the River Thames.

Attendance costs £350 and application forms can be obtained by email at conference@shipshapinternational.com or by visiting www.shipshapeinternational.com.