Marking its first full season in Guernsey, Brittany Ferries has confirmed an improvement in car and foot passenger bookings from the UK and France this summer.
Latest figures indicate forward sales on the company’s direct services are currently ahead 16% of 2024 levels. The significant change is from St Malo, where foot passengers are 136% higher than last year and overall forward bookings are 77% above.
Brittany Ferries Breaks, the tour operating business established in 2021 by Condor, is also performing well, with holiday bookings running 22% above 2024 levels. The average length of stay is five nights, a reflection of a growing trend among UK holidaymakers on package holidays to spend longer in the Bailiwick.
Paul Acheson, Commercial Director of Brittany Ferries, attributed the positive results to the new direct schedule, more frequent sailings from France and joint marketing with VisitGuernsey.
He commented: “It is fantastic to see this improvement compared to last year and encouraging that the growth is consistent across the whole of this summer.
“We know that the new timetable, which is no longer influenced by Jersey, has been well received by customers, along with the additional sailings from St Malo. In partnership with VisitGuernsey, we are actively marketing the Island in both the European and UK markets, as illustrated by the new TV commercial launched last week.”
Deputy Neil Inder, President of the Committee for Economic Development, commented: “Brittany Ferries’ positive outlook for the summer season is welcome news and aligns with our own that 2025 will show strong growth for tourism, particularly with more visitors booked to travel across from France We have a great offering for those visitors from our high-quality restaurants and hotels, our unique history and culture, and stunning natural beauty.”
Mr Acheson added: “Through our tour company, we are also seeing more passengers opt for sea travel as part of their holiday experience. The anticipated rise in visitor numbers – along with longer stays – will deliver clear economic benefits, not just for Guernsey but for the wider Bailiwick.
“Whilst it is early in the year, we remain positive that these numbers leave plenty of room for optimism that 2025 will be a good season for everyone.”
