DFDS to prioritise reliability in contract bid

DFDS said it met with representatives from local businesses, sports clubs and interest groups from both islands

Danish ferry firm DFDS said "reliability" would be its key priority in its bid to supply the Channel Islands.

It said "reliability, consistency and convenient scheduling" were the themes to emerge from meetings it held in the islands.

DFDS thanked both islands for their "hospitality and positive dialogue".

The company said it was interested in bidding for the contract to run ferries to and from the Channel Islands.

DFDS thanked both islands for their "hospitality and positive dialogue"

Filip Werne Hermann, from DFDS, said the firm learned lot and received "very useful feedback", adding they had a better understanding of the needs of the people and businesses on the islands.

He said: "Building on our experience from other routes, we are confident that we can provide safe, reliable, and efficient ferry services to the Channel Islands.

"We look forward to coming back to the islands when the tender process is under way.”

The firm runs services across Europe including serving ports in England, France and Spain.

Last month, DFDS announced it had struck a deal with a Tasmanian manufacturer to design a hybrid-electric vessel for the Channel Islands.

Last year the DFDS Finlandia was trialled in St Peter Port and St Helier harbours.

Currently the Government of Jersey has a contract with Condor until 2025 to run ferry services to and from the island, while the States of Guernsey has a memorandum of understanding until 2025.

Condor Ferries - the current operator - has insisted it is in the best position to continue operating ferry services in the islands.