Alderney Ferry Services has won the government contract to operate a subsidised service between the Island and Guernsey for the summer season following a competitive tender process.
The company’s 12-passenger vessel Causeway Explorer will operate two rotations a day under the contract with additional rotations for 10 days in August to cover Alderney Week.
Given the rise in fuel prices and other economic factors, as well as the need to ensure connectivity during the season, the subsidy provided allows the operator to maintain fares at the same level as last year – £50 one-way per adult, £40 one-way per child up to 14 with babies under two travelling free, and there’s no extra charge for large luggage, cycles and sports equipment.
Although Alderney Ferry Services is already running daily services between the islands, the subsidy period begins on May 1st to cover the May Bank Holidays and continues until September 30th.
Economic Development Committee Chairman Alex Snowdon said: “We are delighted to award the tender to Alderney Ferry Services to operate the inter-island service for this summer season. We have been working hard to provide support through a subsidy which guarantees a service as well as maintaining fares against a background of increased costs.
“The service provides a vital connection to visitors travelling from Guernsey to explore our great offerings, as well as benefitting islanders hopping to our larger sister island. We wish them every success with the season ahead and look forward to welcoming back staycation visitors and those travelling from further afield to enjoy our unique and special island.”
Alderney Ferry Services co-director Charlie Smith said: “We are really pleased we have been awarded the tender to continue providing our scheduled service and look forward to working alongside the States of Alderney and Visit Alderney this season to provide such a vital transport link to and from our island. We know how much our passengers like to use our sea link as another option to get on and off Alderney.
“Having already started our service, and with the continued settling weather, we look forward to welcoming existing and new passengers onboard Causeway Explorer this season.”
