Former Condor ferry to carry Jersey's freight

Long-Serving Channel Islands Ferry to Continue Freight Role Under New Operator

A ferry that has operated between the Channel Islands and the UK for nearly three decades is set to continue transporting freight under new ownership.

The Commodore Goodwill, previously operated by Condor Ferries, has been acquired by Danish shipping company DFDS. The firm said the vessel would strengthen freight links between Jersey, Portsmouth, and St Malo.

As part of the transition, the ferry will be renamed Caesarea Trader—a nod to Jersey’s Latin name—and reflagged under the UK registry. The ship, which measures 126 metres in length and has the capacity to carry approximately 80 trailers, will undergo refurbishment before re-entering service later this year.

It will replace the MV Arrow, the leased vessel currently used to transport freight to Jersey.

DFDS said the acquisition ensures continuity in the island’s supply chain while it prepares for a new long-term operating contract. The company was recently awarded the contract to run freight services for Jersey from March 2025. Brittany Ferries, the parent company of Condor, secured a separate contract to operate Guernsey’s freight routes.

Until the Caesarea Trader is ready, DFDS confirmed that the Arrow and its crew will continue serving the island.