DFDS sees sharp increase in passenger numbers

DFDS has recorded a marked rise in passenger numbers on its Jersey ferry services, with demand continuing to strengthen ahead of the 2026 season.

The ferry operator said passenger traffic on the Jersey–St Malo route in January 2026 was 31% higher than during the same month last year. Overall bookings across DFDS’s Jersey services have increased by an even larger margin, exceeding growth seen elsewhere in the Channel Islands sea travel market.

More than 80,000 passengers have already booked travel with DFDS to and from Jersey in 2026, highlighting sustained demand for ferry links between the island, the UK and France.

The company said the strong January performance was largely driven by the popularity of its 24-hour fare, which offers return sailings for £32 (€34). The fare has proved attractive to islanders making short trips to France, as well as French visitors travelling to Jersey.

Industry representatives welcomed the figures, citing the benefits of closer cooperation between ferry operators, the visitor economy and government.

Ana and Marcus Calvani, co-chief executives of the Jersey Hospitality Association, said they were encouraged by the momentum across the sector.

“We’re pleased that the collaboration between the industry, ferry operator and government is showing signs of positive strong growth and confidence, creating opportunities to further develop offers and increase bookings,” they said. “The development of DFDS Holidays, new partnerships and favourable sailing times from St Malo are set to benefit the Island, businesses and residents, and we’re looking forward to seeing more strong numbers as we go through the year.”

DFDS said demand had remained strong since the start of the year, reflecting continued interest in short-break travel and value-driven pricing. The performance comes amid robust sea travel volumes to the Channel Islands, with Jersey continuing to attract a significant share of passenger traffic.

The company also said forward bookings for the 2026 summer season were encouraging. Both the Poole–Jersey and St Malo–Jersey routes are showing increases compared with the same point last year, while more inbound group travel has already been secured for the coming summer than travelled during the whole of the previous year.

Chris Parker, Jersey Route Director for DFDS, said the figures reflected growing confidence in the island’s ferry routes.

“Seeing such strong growth across our Jersey services, alongside a very positive forward booking position for the summer, gives us confidence in the continued strength of demand for travel to and from the Island,” he said. “We are also pleased with the response to our 24-hour fare, which has exceeded expectations and clearly resonated with both local travellers and visitors from France.”

DFDS said it would continue working closely with partners in Jersey, the UK and France to support inbound tourism and drive further passenger growth across its Channel routes.