ROUTE changes are being implemented by Brittany Ferries as part of a cost-saving “plan for the future” that includes the sale of two ships.
The ferry firm – which lost the contract to became Jersey’s key route operator to DFDS in 2024 – has stated that it is contending with a rising tax burden, Covid loan repayments and cost-of-living concerns among passengers as well as “unfair competition on the Eastern Channel, caused by subsidies”.
Among the financial challenges it faces this year is a bill of around €27 million under the EU’s Emission Trading System.
To facilitate a “pragmatic approach” to its fleet, Brittany Ferries’ Poole to Cherbourg route served by its Barfleur vessel will be closed from November and the ship sold. A daily service from Portsmouth to Cherbourg will operate in its place.
And 2007-built ferry Cotentin, which runs Cherbourg to Rosslare, will also be sold – though the route will continue to operate with other vessels.
Additionally, the company is looking to close its Portsmouth to Le Havre route from October.
As part of the changes, Brittany Ferries has announced that its ships serving Guernsey, Poole and Cherbourg will be allocated to “a more efficient schedule” from the start of November.
This will see Islander serve a triangular route from Portsmouth to Guernsey, Guernsey to Cherbourg and Cherbourg to Portsmouth, while fast-craft Voyager will continue operating sailings between Poole and Guernsey but with the option to travel on to St Malo.
Chief executive Christophe Mathieu said Brittany Ferries “has a track record in adapting its business to long- and short-term challenges”.
He continued: “We overcame Covid when borders were shut, we continue to wrestle with the consequences of Brexit and we are taking steps to make a holiday in France or Spain as reasonable as possible.”
But Mr Mathieu added that “we have to be realistic”.
“We need adapt and that means a plan to secure a future that will continue to bring opportunities for all those who live and work in the regions we serve.
“We have informed our ports and will work with everyone affected on this plan for the future.”
