DAILY crossings between Jersey and St Malo have been scheduled from May onwards as part of the timetable released by new ferry operator DFDS.
The Danish company released its southbound schedule yesterday afternoon, with Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel hailing improved connectivity to France which he expected to help strengthen ties to Brittany and Normandy.
Starting on Friday 28 March, the day DFDS take up the new contract signed with the government at the end of December, the high-speed vessel Tarifa Jet will provide eight weekly return trips between Thursday and Sunday prior to the daily service commencing from Thursday 1 May.
Chris Parker, route director for Jersey, said DFDS had worked closely with St Malo port authorities and local industry bodies and community groups in drafting the sailing schedule, recognising the importance of route to Jersey tourism and hospitality sector and the requirement for accommodating sporting events and fixtures.
“These schedules emphasise our commitment to providing a dependable and efficient service for all travellers, with the options for day trips or longer holidays.
“We would like to thank Islanders for their patience while we have been finalising our schedules to France – we will continue to enhance our services over the coming months to ensure we are best serving the Island.”
Deputy Morel said: “Improved connectivity to France should be of benefit to us all.
“Our social, cultural and economic relationships with Brittany and Normandy are of great value and this schedule will allow us to strengthen those ties.”
Bookings for all services are expected to open by 31 January and DFDS will be running a joint campaign with Visit Jersey to promote travel to the Island.
