CI ferry operators to work together to improve inter-islands travel

A 'Ferry Operators Working Group' has been set up to improve sea travel between Guernsey and Jersey.

Brittany Ferries, Manche-Îles Express and Islands Unlimited have agreed to work together to better align services and simplify travel between the islands.

The Ferry Operators Working Group plans to meet regularly in 2026.

Arranging services around Guernsey-Jersey events and inter-insulars are part of the talks, and a cross-ticketing solution will be explored.

Regular daily year-round connections ended in March after the islands chose separate operators to run their ferry links.

The directors of all three companies hope that the collaboration will lead to improved services for island residents and tourists.

Guernsey's Economic Development President Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller says this is positive for the islands.

“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.

"It has been excellent to see the positive response from the three operators we are working with, who showed immediate keenness to work together and develop a plan which will provide optimal sailing times to the public, and ensure events taking place between the islands are properly catered for."

She adds that Jersey’s ferry operator, DFDS, is not currently part of the new group:

“I anticipate we will be asked why DFDS are not currently involved in these discussions.

"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.

"We also continue to keep discussions open with the Government of Jersey on ensuring a reciprocal rotation from the DFDS.”

DFDS has responded to the announcement of the group, and the Guernsey politician's comments, saying it was not asked to be involved.

“We were surprised to see that Guernsey has established a working group without approaching DFDS, particularly given that we have both publicly and privately made clear our willingness to participate in any discussions about the future of inter-island connectivity.

"DFDS contacted the States of Guernsey earlier this year to express interest in engaging on these issues and to offer our experience as an established ferry operator. We remain open to dialogue and would welcome the opportunity to contribute constructively.

"Any sustainable and successful inter-island ferry service ultimately requires the support and involvement of both the Jersey and Guernsey governments, as well as operators with the capability and commitment to deliver long-term solutions.

"DFDS stands ready to engage with all parties to help improve sea travel between the islands for passengers and businesses alike."

We have contacted the Government of Jersey for comment.