Brittany Ferries Awaits Decision on Jersey Ferry Service Tender

Brittany Ferries has submitted its proposal to the Jersey government regarding the island’s ferry services. Brittany Ferries is the parent company of Condor, whose prior offer to manage the Jersey service was rejected by the government. While Condor has already released its schedule for Guernsey for the upcoming year, individuals and cargo businesses in Jersey are still awaiting a decision on whether it will secure the contract through a recently streamlined bidding process to operate in Jersey. Christophe Matthieu, chief executive of Brittany Ferries, confirmed the company’s submission of its tender and stated it was awaiting notification of its outcome. Competing company DFDS has also indicated its participation in the competition for the route. Brittany Ferries stated that independent evaluators would review the proposals as part of the new, simplified process focused solely on Jersey. Their advice is expected to be presented to the Council of Ministers for ultimate endorsement within the next seven days, according to the company. On 30 October, the States of Guernsey designated Brittany Ferries as its preferred operator, however, Jersey’s administration has yet to finalize its choice. Business executives have expressed disapproval regarding the protracted decision-making process for a new ferry agreement for the Channel Islands. Jersey’s government explained that a factor contributing to the delay was the necessity to ensure the chosen operator’s projected financial viability for the subsequent 15 years. Mr Mathieu commented: “We all recognise what has gone before, and it has not been helpful or constructive, but I believe now is the time to look forward.” He added: “We welcome the independence of the new process and trust those involved in it to make the right decision based on the merit of bids received.” He mentioned that timetables had already been finalized in Guernsey, with “books open for travel in 2025”. However, he stated that preparations were “go” for a “joined-up approach that serves the needs of both islands”. “Everyone agrees that one operator serving mainland and intra-island services makes more sense than two,” he further remarked. Brittany Ferries indicated its intention to “continue to scrutinise carefully” the process.