DFDS partners with Eyecan to improve travel support for people with hidden disabilities

DFDS partners with Eyecan to improve ferry travel for passengers with sight loss

To mark Invisible Disabilities Week, ferry operator DFDS has teamed up with local charity Eyecan to explore ways of making travel easier and more inclusive for passengers with visual impairments. The collaboration forms part of DFDS’s wider Sunflower initiative, which focuses on recognising and supporting travellers with hidden disabilities across its routes.

As part of the project, Mark Coxshall and Agnetta Nerac from Eyecan conducted a detailed accessibility audit on the Jersey–St Malo passenger service. The review looked at every stage of the customer journey — from boarding and disembarking to moving around the vessel — with the goal of identifying practical improvements.

Following the consultation, DFDS plans to update its accessibility information and training materials for both staff and passengers. The company will also standardise accessibility processes across its Jersey routes and expand staff training to ensure team members feel confident supporting passengers with disabilities.

Mark Coxshall, CEO of Eyecan, said:

“Eyecan reached out to DFDS, recognising the importance of ensuring people living with sight loss can travel safely to and from the island. It was great to be invited on board, and reassuring to see DFDS respond so positively to our feedback.”

Steve Garner, Head of Customer Experience at DFDS, added:

“We’re proud to be part of the Sunflower scheme, but we know there’s always more we can do to make travel as accessible as possible. We’re extremely grateful for Eyecan’s input and will be implementing their recommendations to strengthen our commitment to inclusive travel.”

He said DFDS remained open to collaborating with local charities and community groups to improve its services and ensure ferry travel meets the needs of all islanders.