The Government of Jersey is expected complete the signing of its new ferry provider contract with DFDS by the end of next week, according to the Danish ferry firm.<\/p>\n
The contract is expected to last 15 years, with the new service starting in March 2025.<\/p>\n
A DFDS spokesperson said representatives had been in Jersey to meet with key stakeholders and had shared draft timetables with organisations including the Jersey Hospitality Association and the Chamber of Commerce.<\/p>\n
The company also has announced plans to set up a Jersey-route headquarters and was in discussions to sign a lease for offices at the harbour.<\/p>\n
As part of the agreement, DFDS will provide services to Poole, Portsmouth and St Malo.<\/p>\n
The company has committed to:<\/p>\n
Greater frequency of ferries to the UK and France in peak periods<\/p>\n
Faster ferries to the UK<\/p>\n
Three new ferries within the next six years<\/p>\n
Two dedicated high-speed ferries for the summer<\/p>\n
Minister for Sustainable Economic Development 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.”<\/p>\n
DFDS route director for Jersey Chris Parker added: “Everything is under way to get the service up and running.<\/p>\n
“We’re focusing on Jersey to make sure we get it done as quickly as possible.”<\/p>\n
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