DFDS takes over Jersey's ferry services

The arrival of freight ship the MV Arrow in St Helier harbour this morning marked the start of a new era for Jersey's sea links, but it has not been all smooth sailing for DFDS.

The first vessel operated by DFDS under its new 20 year contract to provide freight and passenger services arrived in the island shortly after 5am today (28 March)

The MV Arrow, which is being leased by the Danish firm, has previously brought cargo to the island as a back up to the regular freight vessels and is familiar with Jersey waters.

However, the maiden France crossings have been cancelled because the high speed vessel, the Tarifa Jet, is not ready for service.

114 passengers had been due in to the island this afternoon.

This weekend's schedule has been revised, with the Stena Vinga covering the St Malo route.

Affected passengers are also being refunded and given a voucher for a free future return crossing.

The high speed vessels that will serve Jersey - Levante Jet and Tarifa Jet

Tarifa Jet is an 86 metre high-speed vessel, which previously operated on the Gibraltar - Morocco route.  It has been having a refit in Portland.  DFDS says technical issues mean 'additional work is required' to get her ready for service.

Built in Tasmania in 1997 by Incat, she is similar in layout onboard to the Condor Rapide and Express.

Chris Parker, Route Director for Jersey, apologised for the late changes and said the company was working to keep disruption to a minimum.

Chris Parker, Jersey Route Director

The Stena Vinga from Portsmouth is expected into St Helier harbour (ETA 6pm) before setting off on the reverse overnight crossing with 266 passengers.

DFDS says it marks a new era of connectivity for Jersey.

Chris Parker said: “We’re excited to finally be here, the first day of the next 20 years, and beyond we hope, of sea connectivity for Jersey."

In May 2024, the governments of Jersey and Guernsey invited applications to take over the Channel Islands' ferry operations, as the islands' deal with Condor would expire in March 2025.

READ: Jersey and Guernsey invite ferry companies to bid to operate future services

During November, Guernsey said it was pressing ahead with an independent ferry contract with Condor - now rebranded as Brittany Ferries - separate from the joint tender process.

Jersey went on to award DFDS the Jersey ferry contract in early December, with schedules following in early 2025. 

READ: DFDS wins Jersey ferry contract