Jersey and DFDS close in on completing contract

The ferry contract is expected to last 15 years

The Government of Jersey is expected complete the signing of its new ferry provider contract with DFDS by the end of next week, according to the Danish ferry firm.

The contract is expected to last 15 years, with the new service starting in March 2025.

A DFDS spokesperson said representatives had been in Jersey to meet with key stakeholders and had shared draft timetables with organisations including the Jersey Hospitality Association and the Chamber of Commerce.

The company also has announced plans to set up a Jersey-route headquarters and was in discussions to sign a lease for offices at the harbour.

As part of the agreement, DFDS will provide services to Poole, Portsmouth and St Malo.

The company has committed to:

• Greater frequency of ferries to the UK and France in peak periods

• Faster ferries to the UK

• Three new ferries within the next six years

• Two dedicated high-speed ferries for the summer

Minister for Sustainable Economic Development Kirsten Morel said: "Discussions are going well and we are on track to sign a contract that will provide the best possible services for islanders."

DFDS route director for Jersey Chris Parker added: "Everything is under way to get the service up and running.

"We're focusing on Jersey to make sure we get it done as quickly as possible."