Condor Liberation report finds 'no concerns' over stability

The Condor Liberation replaced two fast ferries that had previously operated between the islands and the UK

A report into the safety and suitability of the Condor Liberation ferry has ruled there are "no concerns" about its stability.

The report was commissioned after passenger concerns over the vessel.

Naval architects Houlder found it "well suited to operating in the English Channel", but "teething problems are expected with any new vessel".

It also suggested changes to improve the ride, the handling and berthing performance of the ferry.

The States of Jersey and Guernsey have welcomed the report's findings.

Houlder was commissioned to carry out an investigation by Condor Ferries and the States of Guernsey and Jersey.

It followed concerns raised by passengers about the vessel, which started serving the Channel Islands to Poole route in March.

Report's conclusions

• The ferry was built to a "high standard" and any damage caused to it was "not uncommon" on high-speed craft.

• There were "no concerns" in a stability test using worst-intended weather conditions of a wave height of 5m (16ft) and wind speed of 50 knots (58mph).

• The trimaran's ability to maintain average speeds more than 30 knots (34mph) when waves were more than 3m (10ft) in height was "exceptional".

• Speed was not "significantly affected" by wind strength or wave height.

• It is two knots slower when carrying more than 150 cars, compared to less than 100 cars.

• In rougher seas it was found to "occasionally roll" to more than 10 degrees.

• The Condor Liberation was able to operate better at higher speeds in bad weather than the previous fast ferries.

• Its berthing ability is not as good as its ability to operate in heavy seas.

Report's recommendations

• If large rolls continue then it should be investigated.

• Condor to warn passengers if sea conditions make large rolling motions likely and look at changing the route to avoid or minimise such conditions.

• Investigate improving the berthing capability - including vessel modifications and changes to the dock sides.

• Review the reliability of the main engines, which have had ongoing issues.

• Timetable should be reviewed to investigate options for improving punctuality.

Problems in its first two weeks led to the company issuing a public apology in April and further issues, including with its loading ramp, led to the review in May.

Problems with its loading ramp led to the vessel sailing from Jersey without about 60 of its passengers

Captain Fran Collins, executive director of operations for Condor Ferries, said: "Condor Liberation is a superb ship and, whilst we recognise that there are still opportunities to improve, we are delighted to have her as part of our fleet.

"This independent verification of her safety, suitability and performance is obviously very welcome.

"We accept all of the report's findings and will implement its recommendations."

Deputy Kevin Stewart, chairman of Guernsey's External Transport Group, said it was extremely pleased the report had "categorically confirmed the safety and suitability of the Condor Liberation for operation between the UK and the Channel Islands".

Senator Lyndon Farnham, Jersey's Economic Development Minister, said he hoped passengers were "reassured by the report's findings".