DFDS has won the tender for Jersey’s ferry services, ministers have revealed – as the selection process finally reached its conclusion today.
Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel said that, subject to the completion of contract negotiations, the Danish shipping giant will operate the Island’s UK and French passenger and freight services from 28 March next year.
The announcement marks the end of a controversial saga that began earlier this year with the launch of a pan-island selection process, which collapsed in October when Guernsey revealed that it had decided to appoint Brittany Ferries as its preferred bidder.
This led to the launch of the Jersey-only tender, with both Brittany Ferries and DFDS confirming their submissions to secure the 15-year contract.
Deputy Morel said the decision to choose DFDS had been taken “with the full support of the Council of Ministers”.
“We have run a robust procurement process that has been independently moderated, and the results show DFDS to be the strongest strategic partner for Jersey.
“A partnership with DFDS will deliver new investment including new highspeed vessels, more sailings in peak periods and a service that is reliable and resilient for Islanders, visitors and businesses,” he added.
Subject to the completion of contract negotiations, the 2025 timetable is expected to be published by the end of next week – meaning passengers will be able to begin booking for next year.
Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham said: “This decision has been made after very careful consideration and will secure the best possible ferry service for Jersey long into the future.”
The statement added that Jersey passengers are expected to benefit from:
– Greater frequency of ferries to the UK and France in peak periods
– Faster ferries to the UK
– Three new ferries within the next six years
– Two dedicated high speed ferries for the summer
It also said that, for freight users, the agreement will mean more regular sailings to France and the UK at peak times, as well as a flat rate card (rather than volume-based pricing).
The government added that this will “provide greater certainty and improve freight competitiveness”.
