DFDS Inter-Island Ferry Service Proposal Declined Over Operational Concerns

Wednesday 15 April 2026

The Committee for Economic Development has carefully considered a proposal submitted by DFDS in February to operate an inter-island ferry service using the 'Stena Vinga', arriving in Guernsey from Jersey on a Friday evening and returning to Jersey late afternoon on Monday.

As part of its assessment, the Committee undertook detailed engagement with Guernsey Ports and Customs and Immigration, alongside a wider evaluation of operational, legal and market impacts. This included careful consideration of the potential effects on existing ferry services, other service providers, and the efficient and safe operation of Guernsey's port infrastructure.

The Committee has also had regard to the political context underpinning inter-island connectivity, including the commitment given in 2025 by the States of Jersey Minister for Sustainable Economic Development to pursue a reciprocal model of service provision, based on one return sailing per week directly between the islands as offered by Brittany Ferries using a high-speed craft to provide optimum inter-island connectivity.

Following this comprehensive consultation and review, the Committee has concluded that it is unable to approve the proposal in its current format. The proposed schedule presents material operational and resourcing challenges to Guernsey Ports and Customs and Immigration. The majority of the proposed arrivals on Friday evening would fall outside of the standard operating hours and would have a knock-on effect on cost and operations for Saturday freight and passenger sailings.

The Committee also had concerns in relation to deliverability of the proposed service and the availability of 'Stena Vinga', given the public reports that it would require maintenance. This includes during the proposed schedule.

The Committee considers that the proposal, as submitted, does not align with the principles of reciprocity that have previously been articulated by both governments as the basis for strengthening inter-island links.

The Committee has however, emphasised that it remains open to constructive dialogue with DFDS, the Government of Jersey and Brittany Ferries to explore alternative arrangements that could better meet the needs of islanders and businesses, and has proposed several alternative solutions.

Deputy Sasha Kazantseva Miller, President of the Committee for Economic Development, said:

"The Committee has given this proposal very careful and detailed consideration. We recognise the importance of strong and reliable inter-island connectivity, particularly at weekends, and we remain committed to improvements that genuinely benefit the Bailiwick as a whole. In doing so, we have also been mindful of the political commitment made in 2025 to develop a reciprocal inter island service model, providing balanced, two-way connectivity between the Islands.

"However, having consulted closely with Guernsey Ports and Customs and Immigration, and having assessed the wider operational and service impacts, we are not able to approve the DFDS proposal in its current form.

"That said, the door is not closed, and we remain very open to further discussions on potential solutions that are operationally viable, legally robust and capable of delivering a genuinely reciprocal service, comparable to the high-speed return model currently offered by Brittany Ferries.

"The Committee has reiterated its position about the importance of working collaboratively with both DFDS and the States of Jersey directly or as part of the inter-island ferry group to identify future opportunities that enhance inter-island connectivity, while ensuring fairness, sustainability and consistency with Guernsey's operational requirements."