Jersey Selects DFDS for Ferry Services, Creating Rift with Guernsey

The island of Jersey has selected the Danish company DFDS to operate its essential passenger and cargo ferry routes, a decision that has ignited a dispute with Guernsey, which opted for Brittany Ferries to manage its maritime connections. This choice signifies the conclusion of Condor Ferries’ 60-year tenure of delivering ferry operations to Jersey. According to a statement released by the Government of Jersey, the forthcoming agreement, pending final signature, is expected to result in an increased frequency of ferry services to the UK and France during busy seasons, quicker journeys to the UK, and the deployment of two high-speed vessels in the summer months. This announcement met with disapproval in Guernsey, where the island’s tourism authority characterized the bidding procedure as a “shambles”. The Council of Ministers had been under pressure to finalize a decision following the announcement by Guernsey’s Committee for Economic Development on 30 October that it intended to grant the contract to Brittany Ferries, Condor’s parent company. Deputy Kirsten Morel stated that Jersey had conducted a “robust procurement process that has been independently moderated” and that the outcomes indicated DFDS was “the strongest strategic partner for Jersey”. Morel further noted that DFDS would introduce new high-speed ships and offer additional sailings during peak times. He described the upcoming service as “a service that is reliable and resilient for islanders, visitors and businesses”. Filip Hermann of DFDS expressed that the company was “thrilled” to have secured the contract. Mr. Hermann conveyed that the firm recognized that “a reliable ferry service is vital for Jersey, for the economy, and for providing essential supplies and access to medical services”. He concluded, “We look forward to serving the local communities on Jersey for many years to come.” The Jersey Hospitality Association indicated that a potential advantage stemming from this decision was the enhancement of trade relations with France. Chief executive Marcus Calvani commented: “We’ve spoken at length with DFDS about bringing down the cost of freight to the island. They have a lot of experience in logistics.” He continued: “But this is also a huge opportunity to make better use of our links with France. “Not just for importing, but export our own produce too. It gives us more potential to diversify the island’s economy.” The confirmation of Jersey’s selection of the Danish ferry operator came after a tourism organization raised concerns that it would be “unworkable” for two distinct companies to provide services to the Channel Islands. Simon de la Rue, representing the Guernsey Tourism Partnership, reiterated this apprehension. He stated, “It’s disappointing to see the islands move further apart when we need now, more than ever, inter-island co-operation.” He added, “We fear that inter-island connectivity and tourism will be the victim of the shambles that has been this Channel Islands tender process.” Simon Vermeulen, vice-president of the Guernsey Economic Development Committee, expressed that he was “very happy” with Guernsey’s choice to proceed with Brittany Ferries. He further remarked, “Jersey’s decision is up to them.” Ammar Ebrahim, a political reporter for BBC Jersey, commented that the decision would bring significant relief to businesses and industries that had voiced complaints regarding a lack of assurance. Morel had previously articulated his worries concerning Condor’s financial situation. He informed the States Assembly last month that DFDS had presented the more robust proposal in the earlier tender process. John Fernandez, a political reporter for BBC Guernsey, noted that the differing approaches of the two governments regarding the ferry contract had placed the islands in an unprecedented situation. Jersey is anticipated to hope that DFDS’s substantial size and larger market presence will compel Guernsey to adopt a similar course of action. Nevertheless, Guernsey officials stated their confidence in Condor’s market expertise and Brittany Ferries’ connections to mainland Europe. They hold the belief that a service managing approximately 35% of the Channel Islands’ business will prove beneficial. The Government of Jersey announced that the schedule for the upcoming year would be released by the close of the following week. Condor Ferries’ existing operational contracts with Jersey and Guernsey are set to expire on 27 March 2025. A collaborative bidding process between the islands was discontinued earlier this year, subsequent to Guernsey’s decision to choose Brittany Ferries. Brittany Ferries disclosed last month its intention to rebrand Condor as Brittany Ferries Channel Islands. For updates, follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook, and BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Story suggestions can be sent to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.