FLOATING holiday pods in St Helier Marina will be built by a specialist British company, Ports of Jersey have announced.
Harbourmaster Captain Bill Sadler said that Waterpod Ltd, a firm specialising in eco-friendly floating accommodation, had been chosen to build and install the pods following a “rigorous procurement process”.
The pods will be just over ten metres long and 4.5m wide, accommodating up to four people, with a bedroom, bathroom, a front-deck overlooking the marina and a living room with sofa bed and kitchen. They will also feature air-source heat pumps and solar panels to generate their own electricity.
The first two pods are scheduled to be built and installed by October, although Ports has plans to install six in total.
Captain Sadler said that Waterpod was selected “for their commitment to sustainability, their price competitiveness and innovative approach to design and construction”.
He continued: “We are confident that these floating pods will enhance the marina’s appeal and provide eco-friendly holiday accommodation that puts sustainability and responsible tourism at the heart of St Helier.
“This unique accommodation will be available to both visitors and Islanders, enabling everyone to enjoy Jersey’s marine heritage in a way that appeals to them.”
Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel said: “This exciting project underlines Jersey’s commitment to sustainable and innovative tourism, allowing visitors to enjoy short stays on the water.
“Many tourists are looking for unique experiences as part of their holiday, and this floating accommodation will add to all the rich and varied experiences already on offer in Jersey.”
Waterpod director Tom Luke added: “We are thrilled to be selected by Ports of Jersey and involved with this innovative project and I am personally excited that more people will have the opportunity to experience the joy of living afloat, even if just for a short stay.”
He continued: “The floating pods will be built using 100% sustainable materials and will incorporate state-of-the-art eco technology to minimise their carbon footprint while maximising guest comfort all year around, even in cold winters and hot summers. We will build the pods in Berkshire, UK and therefore they will only travel a short distance by road and sea to reach their destination in Jersey later this year.”
