The Dart Fisher has joined the Alderney Ferry Service fleet, to provide an all-seasons service.

The 24-meter-long Alicat vessel is capable of cruising speeds of 20 knots.

It's built in aluminium, and was originally designed to help service offshore wind farms.

The company says the 12 seater can be converted to accommodate 24 passengers. But this would only be if the island's runway was closed, and it became the sole passenger service.

The vessel will be repainted and is due to appear in local waters towards the end of August.

Meanwhile, the Causeway Explorer and Sorcerer II will continue to work the Guernsey and Cherbourg route.

Company Director Charlie Smith says the Dart Fisher will help them deliver an all year round service that islanders 'desperately need'.

"We always knew this would be a big gamble for us, but we know what we are doing will change our island forever.

This is a very exciting new chapter for our company and for our island."