Jersey signs 20-year contract with DFDS Seaways for island-only ferry service

Jersey's government has signed a contract with DFDS Seaways to operate the island’s ferry routes from 28 March 2025.

Under the 20-year contract, DFDS will provide passenger and freight services to the UK and France.

This is despite legal action from Brittany Ferries against the government regarding the Jersey-only ferry tender process.

The government said before the signing: "Unless any Court process beforehand prevents it, the contract with DFDS will come into effect at just after 5pm on 31 December 2024."

The services will include routes from Jersey to Poole, Portsmouth, and Saint-Malo.

DFDS’ Jersey fleet will comprise one Ro-Pax vessel, two high-speed crafts, and a dedicated freight vessel.

Jersey's Sustainable Economic Development Minister, Deputy Kirsten Morel says: "I'm delighted we have signed a contract with DFDS which will enable us to provide the best possible ferry services for Islanders for the next 20 years."

DFDS says it is committed to increasing ferry frequency in peak periods and will invest in three new vessels by 2032.

Torben Carlsen, DFDS CEO, says: "We are excited to embark on this journey with Jersey and the local community.

"The lifeline ferry service is a vital link for the island, and we are fully committed to delivering reliability and an enhanced travel and transport experience for islanders, businesses and visitors.

"We look forward to building a strong partnership with Jersey and serving the community."

The contract will run for 20 years beginning on Friday 28 March 2025.

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