DFDS wants a new generation of Channel Island captains and crew

Tuesday, 6 May 2025 14:13

Their 'Careers at Sea Day' will launch the programme

DFDS' apprenticeship programme in the coming academic year hopes to welcome a crew and team from Jersey.

A 'Careers at Sea Day' on Wednesday 2 July, hopes to inspire a new generation of aspiring seafarers.

Those interested can explore various roles and career opportunities at DFDS, all on board the high-speed Tarifa Jet.

DFDS Tarifa Jet

The open day will take place on board the Tarifa Jet.

They will meet the Captain, Officers, as well as the Marine HR and Crewing Team.

There are various roles available for Deck and Engine Apprentices, and Deck and Engine Cadetships for 16-year-olds and above

They also have immediate roles available this summer for customer-facing seasonal roles.

DFDS says they are excited about creating long-term opportunities in the places they operate.

Chris wants to see a workforce that is from the places where they operate

Route Director, Chris Parker, says they want to create opportunities and invest in Jersey for the long term:

"Everybody I speak to on the island is acutely aware of so many things that people wouldn't think about elsewhere - like weather and tides. I think there will be a huge amount of passion around being part of Maritime Jersey and having local people there.

"It's an 18-month programme, and then you have that career at sea.

"With the fast craft, you're not necessarily going to sea and staying at sea, you can come off and be at home as well.

"We really want to have local people on board the vessels as part of our identity of being DFDS Jersey.

"We want Jersey men and women on board our vessels - future captains, future engineers."