Tourist Arrivals in Jersey Drop Year-on-Year

Visitor Numbers to Jersey Decline in Early 2025 Compared to Last Year

Jersey has experienced a drop in visitor numbers during the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to recent data from Visit Jersey.

In April alone, the island welcomed 35,200 visitors, a decrease of 7,100 compared to April last year. March figures also showed a decline, with 26,200 visitors—1,300 fewer than in 2024. February, however, saw a slight increase of 1,100 visitors, bringing the total to 19,300.

Tricia Warwick, Chief Executive of Visit Jersey, described the decline as a “small slump” but acknowledged the numbers were “disappointing.” She attributed part of the downturn to the recent change in ferry operators serving the island.

“We anticipated some impact from the ferry transition, especially since the changeover was announced late in the process,” Ms. Warwick explained.

Despite the drop in visitor arrivals, there are signs of optimism. Ms. Warwick noted increased engagement with Visit Jersey’s online platforms, with more users exploring travel information and clicking through to hotel and attraction websites.

However, she pointed out that this increased interest has yet to translate into confirmed bookings. “More people are researching Jersey as a destination, but the challenge remains in converting that interest into actual visits,” she said.

Passenger data from Ports of Jersey further reflects the slowdown. From January to the end of May, total passenger numbers—including visitors, residents, and business travelers—reached 629,801, marking a 7% decline compared to 2024.

While airport traffic remained steady at 524,450 passengers, sea travel saw a significant drop. Sea passenger numbers fell by 30%, standing at 105,451 during the same period.

Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, Kirsten Morel, acknowledged the “weaker than desired” figures, stressing the need for more effective strategies to convert visitor interest into bookings.

“These numbers highlight the importance of working closely with the hotel industry to develop attractive offers that encourage travelers to choose Jersey,” he said.