DFDS Proposes New Weekend Ferry Link to Boost Jersey - Guernsey Travel

Officials in Jersey and Guernsey are reviewing new proposals from DFDS that could expand ferry connections between the two islands.

The Danish ferry operator has suggested launching a passenger and vehicle service departing Jersey on Fridays and Guernsey on Mondays. The plan is currently under consideration by the States Trading Supervisory Board, which oversees Guernsey’s ports and commercial interests.

Talks follow a joint meeting on 13 February between representatives of the States of Guernsey and the Government of Jersey focused on improving transport links across the Channel Islands.

In a statement, DFDS said the proposal forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen regional connectivity and offer islanders more reliable travel options. The company confirmed ongoing discussions with government officials, port authorities, transport operators, and business groups, including local chambers of commerce.

Calls for improved ferry services have grown amid dissatisfaction with existing inter-island routes and limited sailing frequency.

However, Sasha Kazantseva-Miller, president of Guernsey’s Economic Development Committee, told the States that a daily car ferry between the islands is not considered realistic. She said such a service would likely struggle commercially given the relatively small market and current scheduling constraints. While governments may consider incentives for additional links, she noted these would require strong business justification and compliance with existing agreements.

Last year, Guernsey’s Economic Development Committee provided initial funding to Islands Unlimited to support the purchase of a vessel and the launch of summer services. Kazantseva-Miller said Guernsey would prefer future initiatives to be jointly funded with Jersey.

Earlier this month, Jersey’s sustainable economic development minister, Kirsten Morel, revealed that DFDS had also proposed a Friday evening sailing from Jersey to Guernsey before continuing to Portsmouth using the vessel Stena Vinga. Under the plan, passengers could disembark in Guernsey, though Guernsey travellers would not be able to board for the onward UK journey.

At present, Brittany Ferries operates a weekly Wednesday passenger and vehicle crossing between the islands. DFDS previously ran a Monday inter-island service during the summer, while Islands Unlimited operated a daily passenger-only route until September, with sailings expected to resume in March.

Island authorities say discussions on improving connectivity will continue as they seek practical and financially sustainable transport options for residents and businesses.