The first passenger ferry to connect the Channel Islands with the UK in three months will sail tomorrow.
Operated by Condor, the ferry will depart Poole at midday on Saturday 4 July and arrive in Jersey at 4pm, where passengers will be tested on arrival or be required to self-islaote for 14 days. Condor’s St Malo to Jersey service will not resume this weekend due to industrial action caused by a third party.
‘We are naturally very pleased that cross-Channel passenger services can resume so our firsthigh speed sailing will commence this Saturday between Poole and Jersey,’ said Paul Luxon, Condor Ferries’ CEO.
‘Whilst we are grateful to the Government of Jersey for confirming a re-opening of the borders so Condor can now start to support the island’s tourism economy and provide travel options for islanders, it should not be underestimated the severe operational, revenue and cost challenges Condor has experienced and continues to suffer as a direct result of the Covid-19 crisis.’
Condor Ferries, which has been operating a freight-only service since 23 March, announced in May that it would be making job cuts as a consequence of the financial impact caused by the pandemic. The company is also seeking support from the governments of both islands, according to Mr Luxon.
‘Border closures and the pan-Island lockdown have seen a total cessation of all passenger services for three months, freight volumes down by a third, yet we have continued to maintain lifeline freight supplies to the islands throughout the period. All of this has been borne by Condor so we are in discussions with the Governments of both islands for some form of business support.’
New safety protocols will be in place for passengers and crew, in accordance with international guidance. These include self-service for food and beverage, floor distancing markers, protection screens and contactless payments. Cleaning will also be more frequent and all staff will be issued with personal protective equipment.
(Feature image via Poole Tourism)
