The Government of Jersey has extended Condor Ferries’ current contract for an additional seven months to continue operating freight and passenger ferry services to and from the island.
Jersey and Guernsey had initially invited companies to bid on ferry services through 2040. Guernsey has already selected Brittany Ferries, Condor's majority shareholder, but Jersey’s decision remains pending.
Deputy Kirsten Morel, responsible for Jersey's tender process, stated that the extension would help “protect our economy” and allow Condor to publish its summer schedules. Morel explained that both final bidders, DFDS and Brittany Ferries, have been invited to collaborate with Jersey’s government to secure a reliable long-term ferry solution. He expects a final decision on the contract before the year’s end, stressing the importance of selecting a financially resilient provider able to invest in a new fleet over the 15-year contract period.
In response to the latest developments, Guernsey's Committee for Economic Development President, Deputy Neil Inder, emphasized that Guernsey’s tender process remains on track and clarified that the joint process had not broken down. Inder noted that the joint scoring was completed before Guernsey made its decision to select Brittany Ferries.
Following the government’s extension request, DFDS Vice President Filip Werne Hermann indicated that DFDS is reviewing the terms offered to Condor before making any further comments.
Before the extension announcement, the Jersey Hospitality Association criticised the government’s handling of the tender process, calling it indecisive and disruptive in an open letter to the chief minister. Chairman Malcolm Lewis expressed concern that the delayed process had undermined confidence within the hospitality sector and across the island.
Meanwhile, Guernsey's Committee for Economic Development has confirmed that it will finalise a contract with Brittany Ferries in the coming days. Inder reassured both islands that a “robust inter-island service” would be implemented if Jersey ultimately selects DFDS over Brittany Ferries.