Under the proposed schedule, passengers travelling from Jersey would be able to disembark in Guernsey on a Friday evening. However, Guernsey travellers heading to Jersey would only be able to board the vessel after it completes a return leg to the UK, meaning travel would not be possible until Monday. Critics argue this timing undermines the usefulness of the service for sporting events, competitions and cultural activities typically held over weekends.
Local dog owner Derryn de Carteret, who regularly competes in the Channel Island Dog Show, said the proposed route does not meet the needs of participants travelling from Guernsey to Jersey. She explained that limited capacity on charter boats, combined with the challenges of travelling with multiple dogs, has left many competitors unable to attend this year’s show, scheduled for Saturday 14 February.
De Carteret added that travel difficulties were already pushing islanders to compete in the UK instead of between the islands, and called for further discussions between DFDS and Brittany Ferries to expand inter-island services. “Hopefully there’ll be more discussion,” she said, urging operators to consider routes that better reflect local demand.
Tourism representatives have taken a more optimistic view of the proposals. Charlie Walker, interim co-chair of the Tourism Management Board, said any improvement in connectivity should be welcomed, describing the plans as a potential opportunity to “open the market” between Jersey and Guernsey, provided the service is reliable.
Walker said that a strong inter-island link was critical for the growth of tourism and sport, but stressed that services would need to be marketed effectively and demonstrate clear commercial demand. She pointed to a significant rise in French visitors, with an additional 37,000 travellers recorded last year, as evidence that improved transport links can deliver tangible benefits.
She also highlighted the potential for a year-round ferry service, noting that Guernsey’s tourism season has already expanded, with major events such as the Guernsey Rally extending visitor activity into October rather than ending in September.
The DFDS proposals are still subject to approval by the States of Guernsey. The Committee for Economic Development has been approached for comment.