Subsidised Alderney ferry services to resume

The return of the subsidy comes after a "successful" 2023 season

Subsidised ferry services between Alderney and Guernsey will resume this week, the States of Alderney has said.

It follows a "successful" 2023 season, which saw more than 5,000 passengers travel between the islands.

Subsidised services will begin from 1 May and continue until 30 September.

A new vessel, the Sorcerer II, will also be introduced and run journeys to and from Cherbourg, as well as routes within the bailiwick.

The Sorcerer II will operate journeys to and from Cherbourg

The subsidy would not apply on routes to France, the States said.

Nigel Vooght, chairman of the Policy and Finance Committee, said: "The service provides a vital connection to visitors travelling from Guernsey to explore Alderney, as well as benefitting islanders hopping to our larger sister island."

The subsidised costs are £54 one way for adults and £43 for children up to 14.

Those under two can travel free.

Charlie Smith, co-director at Alderney Ferry Services, said: "Our Guernsey and Alderney route is so important for all our passengers and we are looking forward to another season with Causeway Explorer.

"We are also pleased we can offer our Alderney-Cherbourg route bringing a new tourism market to our island."