No provider awarded subsidy for seasonal inter-island ferry service

Friday, 5 June 2026 14:10

By Harry Booth

No provider has been awarded a subsidy to operate the inter-island ferry service between Alderney and Guernsey.

A procurement process was launched to appoint a provider, with the results considered yesterday (4 June).

However, the Economic Development Committee says it wasn't in a position to award a subsidy to a preferred provider - because the information provided didn't give assurance that a resilient service could be delivered for the 2026 season.

It adds that it will continue to investigate various options and models to strengthen connectivity in the future, whilst keeping reliability, quality, and safety at the forefront of thinking.

Stuart Clark, Chair of EDC, says:

"This is not a decision which we have come to lightly however, the investment of public funds in the current financial climate must be supported by both quantitative and qualitative factors to satisfy internal and external scrutiny.

"On this occasion, we are not satisfied that the tender criteria were met in order to provide us with the required assurances to warrant such an investment of public funds.

"EDC is confident that the range of providers competing in the market will ensure that connectivity between the islands continues and wishes all operators a safe and prosperous season."

The Committee says the decision included reflection on the current connectivity provided by the independent operators who continue to service the route without a subsidy from the States.

Alderney Ferry Services has confirmed it wasn't awarded the subsidy and, as a result, it's increased fares with immediate effect.