Condor has confirmed an improvement in the number of passengers carried to and from the Islands over the summer holidays in comparison with last year.
The figures released indicate that during the peak travel period from 14 July to 03 September, the company carried an additional 26,874 car and foot passengers across its network than in the equivalent period in 2023, a rise of 14%. Inter-island travel showed the most noticeable positive variance of 75%, from 8,766 to 15,369.
Christophe Mathieu (pictured), Condor’s CEO was naturally pleased to see the positive result and confirmed that the altered summer schedule was a contributing factor: “The figures are very encouraging and would not have been achievable under the previous timetable which was adjusted at the start of the season. This offered improved frequency of sailings from St Malo, Jersey and Guernsey, along with extra capacity from the UK thanks to Condor Islander’s first summer in service.”
Commenting on the Jersey figures, Ana and Marcus Calvani, Co-CEOs of the Jersey Hospitality Association, said: “It’s been a jam-packed summer in Jersey with the new impetus and energy behind the Battle of Flowers and a new venue for The Weekender, plus a Royal Visit making it a great place to come and enjoy all that the Island has to offer from breath taking scenery and experiences, to world-class food and drink.
“We are delighted that with all that’s going on, visitors are responding to the new summer timetable and the Visit Jersey campaigns so that we can do what we love which is showing them a great time on our lovely island.
“The Association closely monitors the arrival figures, and we have appreciated the changes that Condor Ferries has made helping us to tailor offerings and experiences to suit passengers as soon as they arrive.”
Condor has also reported strong growth in late Summer and Autumn bookings across all routes with car volumes returning to pre-Covid levels.
Mr Mathieu added: “The success of this summer, coupled with positive indicators for the shoulder months and into next year, offers optimism that 2025 could be a good season for the Island.
“We will be working closely once again with our industry partners, including the Jersey Hospitality Association, Visit Jersey and UK and continental tour operators, to maximise the opportunity.
“We are also keen to open bookings for Summer 2025, pending the outcome of the decision on the tender, as we are conscious that pre-registrations are not quite what our passengers and industry partners expect to secure for next season. It will be an important year as it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Islands’ liberation.”
