JERSEY’S new contract with DFDS is expected to be signed by the end of next week – as the operator prepares to take over the Island’s freight and passenger ferry services next year.
In a statement issued this afternoon, the Danish shipping giant also confirmed plans to publish a summer timetable by next Friday.
The update follows the government’s announcement earlier this month that, subject to the completion of contract negotiations, DFDS will operate the Island’s UK and French passenger and freight services from 28 March 2025.
The Danish shipping firm has already outlined its hopes for a “smooth transition” and said it will seek to work with the authorities and incumbent operator Condor to ensure this.
“The Government of Jersey and DFDS expect to complete the signing of the contract for Jersey’s lifeline sea links by the end of next week, and are finalising the details of the 15-year agreement,” today’s update stated.
“Preparations for the new service from March 2025 are already underway and DFDS expects to publish a summer timetable by next Friday.”
It continued: “DFDS representatives have been in Jersey to meet with key stakeholders and shared draft timetables with organisations including the Jersey Hospitality Association and the Chamber of Commerce.
“The company plans to set up a Jersey-route headquarters and is in discussions to sign a lease for Harbour offices.”
While the summer timetable is yet to be published, the government has already confirmed DFDS’s offering will include services to Poole, Portsmouth and Saint Malo.
Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel said: “Discussions are going well, and we are on track to sign a contract that will provide the best possible services for Islanders.”
DFDS route director for Jersey, Chris Parker, added: “Everything is underway to get the service up and running. We’re focusing on Jersey, to make sure we get it done as quickly as possible.”
