Ferry operators working group established to improve inter-island travel, DFDS "surprised" not to have been asked to join
- A new ferry operators working group has been established in Guernsey.
- The group includes Brittany Ferries, Manche-Iles Express, and Islands Unlimited, but not DFDS
- The focus is on improving sea travel between Guernsey and Jersey in 2026.
- The working group aims to align sailing schedules with local events and explore cross-ticketing options.
- Regular meetings will be held in 2026 to enhance ferry services.
- UPDATE: States of Jersey now set to join group.
A working group comprising three ferry operators and the States of Guernsey has been established to improve sea travel between Guernsey and Jersey.
The group includes Brittany Ferries, Manche-Iles Express, and Islands Unlimited, and they have met for the first time.
The working group is tasked with ensuring that sailing times among the three operators are coordinated effectively, particularly in relation to inter-island events.
The group has committed to exploring options for cross-ticketing, which would simplify the travel process for passengers.
In a statement, Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller, Economic Development President, emphasised the significance of ferry travel, stating, “Travel by ferry between Guernsey and Jersey is an important part of island life, and, as part of our in development-sea connectivity strategy, it is something we want to see improve in the new year.”
She acknowledged the enthusiasm from the ferry operators to collaborate on optimising sailing times and catering for inter-island events.
Deputy Kazantseva-Miller also addressed the absence of DFDS in the current discussions, explaining, “While we remain open to engaging with them at any time and note that they contacted us some time ago expressing a willingness to do so, we have not received any further follow-up.”*
She reiterated that discussions with the Government of Jersey regarding a reciprocal arrangement from DFDS are ongoing.
DFDS told the Jersey Evening Post that it was "surprised to see that Guernsey has established a working group without approaching DFDS”.
It confirmed it had contacted the States “earlier this year” to say it was keen on engaging in these issues and “remained open to dialogue".
Paul Acheson, Group Director, Sales and Marketing, for Brittany Ferries, was keen to build on the momentum they had established this year.
Chad Murray, CEO of Islands Unlimited, said: “We’re pleased to be working collaboratively with fellow ferry operators and the States of Guernsey to improve inter-island sea connectivity, particularly in support of events, sport and tourism.”
Olivier Normand, Sales and Marketing Director for Manche-Iles Express, said that the firm will strive to meet both local and tourist demands through collaboration with the other ferry operators.
The group is set to meet regularly in 2026 to refine schedules in conjunction with any requests from local clubs or associations for travel.
UPDATE: States of Jersey to join group
After a call on the morning of Monday 22 December, the States of Jersey has confirmed its interest and will join from the next meeting.
"It's very positive to see the strong political will in Jersey to improve inter-island travel and we look forward to continuing to work with the Government of Jersey and DFDS on this and securing a reciprocal rotation,” said Deputy Kazantseva-Miller.
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