Coach crossing by Eurotunnel

To make a journey from the UK to France and to other European countries, coaches and other vehicles have to cross the English Channel. It is now possible in two ways, by ferry or by Eurotunnel. Today I will explain and show to you the coach crossing by Eurotunnel.

According to Wikipedia: The Channel Tunnel (French: Le tunnel sous la Manche), also known as the Chunnel, is a 50.5 km (31.4 mi) undersea rail tunnel linking Folkestone, Kent in the UK with Coquelles, near Calais in northern France beneath the English Channel at the Strait of Dover. At its lowest point it is 75 m (250 ft) deep. At 37.9 km (23.5 mi), the Channel Tunnel has the longest undersea portion of any tunnel in the world although the Seikan Tunnel in Japan is both longer overall, at 53.85 km (33.46 mi) and deeper, at 240 m (790 ft).

The tunnel carries high-speed Eurostar passenger trains, Eurotunnel roll-on/roll-off vehicle transport - the largest in the world - and international rail freight trains. In 1996 the American Society of Civil Engineers identified the tunnel as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

Ideas for a cross-Channel fixed link existed as early as 1802, but British political and press pressure over compromised national security stalled attempts to construct a tunnel. However, the eventual successful project, organised by Eurotunnel, began construction in 1988 and opened in 1994. The project came in 80% over its predicted budget. Since its construction, the tunnel has faced several problems. Fires have disrupted operation of the tunnel. Illegal immigrants and asylum seekers have used the tunnel to enter Britain (on occasion, even successfully managing to enter the tunnel on foot), causing a minor diplomatic disagreement over the siting of the Sangatte refugee camp, which was eventually closed in 2002.

Coach drivers aren’t driving along the Eurotunnel, but they leave their coach on board a special shuttle train. Operation of the tunnel helps the driver with the smooth entry into the platform. During the crossing you can leave the coach. Fifty kilometer (31,5 mi) crossing takes only 40 minutes and it’s not dependent on weather conditions.

Eurolines boarding Eurotunnel's shuttle train (VIDEO)

Eurotunnel: from Folkestone to Calais (VIDEO)