Brittany Ferries, Condor and senior business groups in Jersey and Guernsey have voiced concerns over the lack of a decision in the ferry tender process, warning that the prolonged impasse is now detrimental to the Islands’ visitor economies.
These concerns arise from additional delays in awarding the 15-year licence, with the tender now nearly a month behind schedule. Bidders were originally informed that the contract would be awarded by the end of September at the latest.
Christophe Mathieu, CEO of Brittany Ferries and Condor Ferries, said: “We fully recognise our role in boosting the visitor economy and ensuring travel options for Islanders, so this delay is hurting those we are trying to support and only adds to the uncertainty for the coming year.
“Had we been aware of this hold-up, we would have launched our 2025 summer schedule in mid-September to provide some reassurance for Islanders, visitors, those working in the local tourism industry, along with our staff and crew who are enduring a very unsettling time with understandable concerns around their future.
“To put this delay in context: Fifteen percent of anticipated passengers have already booked to travel with Brittany Ferries next summer. That’s because we were able to launch our schedules early, and to start taking reservations a couple of months ago. But for the Islands, there have been no bookings and that is a direct consequence of delays and uncertainty in the tender process. We worry that those considering a holiday in these beautiful destinations will simply go elsewhere.”
Murray Norton, Chief Executive of the Jersey Chamber of Commerce said: “Jersey Chamber understood the successful tender public announcement was to be made at the very end of September.
“We are hearing this will now possibly be November and consequently there has been a drop in 2025 bookings. Chamber has been consistently saying for over four months that it is not in the best interests of the island for our tourism industry to be the collateral damage, due to any delays in this tender process.”
Alice Gill, Executive Director of Guernsey Chamber of commerce said: “The Chamber recognises that the thorough due diligence and governance when making significant decisions affecting our community takes time. However, the overdue decision regarding this contract is now impacting business operations on the island. A timely resolution is crucial, as local businesses need clarity to make informed plans and investments for the upcoming year. We urge all relevant parties to prioritise this matter, ensuring that our business community can move forward with confidence and stability in planning for the future.”
“Uncertainty and lack of confidence are the last things our industry needs during already challenging times, especially as we work on delivery the new Visitor Economy Strategy for growth,” added Ana and Marcus Calvani, Co-Chief Executive Officers Jersey Hospitality Association.
“Delays in the tender process are having significant negative effects, particularly as we plan for 2025 – a year focused on strengthening inter-island and French connections, celebrating our 80th Liberation anniversary.
“While cargo transport is critical in this tender, connectivity for visitors and Islanders quality of life is equally vital. The current uncertainty is damaging. We hope for a swift, optimal decision for the Channel Islands so we can all refocus on growth once again.”
Mr Mathieu concluded: “We have complied with each and every deadline set for us and provided additional information as required according to the bid process.”
Pictured: The 125 metre Condor Ferries Ro-Pax ship Condor Islander passing the 158 metre Brittany Ferries Ro-Pax ship Barfleur in the Little Russel after leaving St Peter Port, Bound St Helier, Jersey. Credit: Tony Rive
