DFDS Insists It Is ‘Meeting Demands’ of Service Contract

DFDS Defends Ferry Services After Criticism From Jersey’s Chief Minister

Ferry operator DFDS has rejected criticism from Jersey’s Chief Minister, insisting it is fulfilling the terms of its government contract despite widespread concern over this winter’s sailing schedule.

Deputy Lyndon Farnham publicly accused the company on Tuesday (20 August) of “falling short” of islanders’ expectations, calling for improved reliability and connectivity. His intervention followed a backlash over the suspension of Poole services this winter and doubts about the availability of high-speed ferries during key holiday periods.

The hospitality industry has warned that the reduced timetable could damage tourism, pointing in particular to the absence of fast-ferry services over Christmas and the reliance on a single vessel until May.

Responding to those concerns, DFDS Route Director Chris Parker told media that the operator is meeting its contractual obligations:

“We have a contract and we are delivering services between Jersey and the UK, and Jersey and France, which are in line with that contract or indeed what’s expected in that. Whilst I acknowledge concerns, what I would say is, we do have capacity—three times the expected volume. The challenge now is working with partners such as the JHA and Visit Jersey on how best to market that capacity.”

Despite political pressure, DFDS confirmed it has no plans to reinstate the Poole fast ferry this winter. The company argues the schedule reflects demand levels, which fall sharply outside the summer season.

Mr Parker highlighted the scale of that decline:

“If you look at the demand for ferry travel over the winter on the Poole route, for example, between November and March, fewer passengers travel than in the month of June alone. It really is that seasonal. St Malo is twice the market of the UK—both Poole and Portsmouth combined.”

While DFDS maintains that current services meet requirements, both ministers and tourism leaders continue to urge the company to consider the wider impact on Jersey’s economy.