In June, DFDS invited the people of Jersey to help make a little piece of Island history by naming one of the vessels that serve our Island.

Nearly 1,000 name suggestions were entered, inspiration ranging from Jersey’s rich history, culture, landscapes, sea life, landmarks and of course, many comedic ideas (yes, Boaty McBoatface was suggested)!

Once entries had closed, a shortlist of the top four names was selected by a judging panel comprising Carl Walker – Chief Editor of All Island Media, Chris Parker – DFDS Jersey Route Director, and Pamala Lee – Jersey sailor and Route du Rhum competitor (sponsored by DFDS).

The top four shortlisted names were:

  • 1. Corbière Seaways
  • 2. Ormer Seaways
  • 3. Mon Vie Seaways
  • 4. Vega Seaways

Voting closed on Sunday 19 July, with just over 700 votes being cast, we can officially announce that the name of DFDS’ newest vessel will be…

Corbière Seaways!

The winning name will become part of Jersey’s maritime story and will be seen by thousands of passengers travelling to and from the Island for years to come. The suggester of the winning name* will also receive:

  • 4 free crossings on the vessel (4 pax and a standard car)
  • VIP tour of the ship including a visit to the bridge to meet the captain
  • Attend the naming ceremony

Furthermore, for the non-winning entrants, 10 people that put forward a suggestion will be drawn from the pool of entrants. They will win a free crossing (with a car) on the ship.

*Due to multiple entries suggesting Corbière, to keep the competition fair, the winner will be picked from a pool of all entrants that suggested this name at random & contacted within 7 working days of the name announcement.

More information about the to-be-renamed vessel

DFDS is purchasing a freight and passenger vessel, known as Stena Vinga, earlier this year. It has been used by the ferry operator on charter since it started its Jersey operations last year.

Mathieu Girardin, head of the Danish shipping firm’s ferry division, described the acquisition of Stena Vinga from Swedish ferry operator Stena Line as “a natural step which supports our long‑term operations and commitment to serving Jersey”.

The 125-meter-long vessel can carry up to 400 passengers and 200 cars and has a freight capacity of 1,500 lane metres.

The purchase is due to be completed in November.

Read more about DFDS’ acquisition of Stena Vinga here.