The governments of Jersey and Guernsey are inviting applications to take over the Channel Islands' ferry operations.

Ferry operators can, now, throw their hats into the ring, to win the next operating tender.

As the islands' deal with Condor draws to a close in March next year, the governments are seeking a new deal, whether from the original company or a new one.

Condor Ferries has stated it will still bid to continue operations past March 2025. The deadline for application submissions is 8 July.

Recently, DFDS, a Danish ferry company, held a public consultation in Guernsey and Jersey to see what islanders would want from a ferry service in the Channel Islands.

The company also test-berthed its Finlandia Seaways cargo ship, in both St Helier's and St Peter Port's harbours.

Brittany Ferries, who shares CEO Christophe Mathieu with Condor, also tested its freight ship in both ports.

Right: DFDS Finlandia Seaways credit: Vessel Finder. Left: Brittany Ferries Barfleur.

Deputy Neil Inder, President of Guernsey’s Committee for Economic Development says the initial market testing phase of the procurement process is complete.

"We remain on track to complete the overall process and make a final decision before the end of the year, in time for when the current agreement ends.

"This is an open and impartial procurement process being run jointly by Guernsey and Jersey, and we therefore don’t intend to provide an ongoing commentary or engage in speculation while it’s taking place.

"But we will provide the community with any significant updates as the process continues."

Jersey Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel says the governments are going through this process to ensure the best possible freight and passenger services is secured for the Channel Islands.

"The islands are working together with the shared objective of finding the operator which can deliver the best service in terms of resilience, reliability, passenger experience and sustainability."