The absence of an inter-island ferry timetable is causing significant disruption to tourism and sports activities in the Channel Islands, with industry leaders expressing growing concern over the continued uncertainty.
Tourism officials warn that the delay in publishing ferry schedules is already impacting the crucial early booking period. Tim Crowley, who chairs the Visitor Economy Committee at Jersey’s Chamber of Commerce, indicates that package holidays typically available for booking since last autumn remain unavailable, putting the region “on the back foot” for the upcoming tourist season.
“The uncertainty around Channel Islands routes and the complete absence of bookings is deeply concerning,” Crowley explained. “We’re now in January without any sailings available for purchase, when these would normally have been established months ago.”
The situation is particularly alarming for Guernsey’s tourism sector. Hannah Beacom, chairwoman of the Guernsey Tourism Management Board, reveals that numerous provisional bookings are currently in limbo. “May is traditionally one of our peak months,” she noted. “Without quick resolution, we risk losing a significant portion of our early season business.”
The impact extends beyond tourism, affecting both the sports and construction sectors. The Jersey Sports Council emphasizes the need for weekend services with adequate shore time to maintain viable inter-island sporting competitions. Current air travel alternatives are prohibitively expensive for many sports teams and participants.
DFDS, the ferry operator, attributes the delay to ongoing schedule finalization, complicated by a recent legal challenge from competitor Brittany Ferries over the tender process. Both Jersey and Guernsey governments acknowledge the urgency of the situation and report ongoing discussions with DFDS and Manche Isles Express to improve inter-island connectivity.
The Jersey Construction Council has urged ferry operators to expedite timetable publication, highlighting the importance of reliable inter-island transport for businesses operating across both islands. Government officials indicate that meetings are scheduled to address these concerns, though no specific timeline for resolution has been announced.
