One year of DFDS' Jersey contract

Saturday, 28 March 2026 at 08:10

It has been one year since the first DFDS ferry came into Elizabeth Harbour.

On the first anniversary of its Jersey service, the ferry operator is outlining its plans for 2026 and beyond.

It says that since some 'initial disruption', performance has improved steadily as 'services bedded in.'

READ: DFDS takes over Jersey's ferry services

The year has not come without its challenges.

The contract between the operator and the government was made public after the Chief Minister, Deputy Lyndon Farnham, said its level of service fell 'short of what was promised and what islanders and visitors expect' over winter disruption.

READ: Jersey's Chief Minister demands better service from DFDS after winter schedule backlash

Chris Parker, Route Director for DFDS Jersey, says: “We recognise the first few months were challenging, but what matters is the progress since, and the improvements islanders are now experiencing."

Last month, DFDS published its passengers numbers for this year, which it said were looking like a 'strong start'.

It says 80,000 were already booked onto its services.

READ: 'Positive signs' for 2026 passenger numbers

Chris Parker continued:

"In 2026, we will go further by strengthening schedules, improving reliability and enhancing the customer experience.

“Reliability is vital for islanders and businesses, so this remains central to our plans as we enter our second year serving Jersey. We will continue building confidence through a dependable, consistent service.”

The firm says in the coming year, it will focus on refining schedules, improving customer communication ahead of sailings, collaborating more closely with freight customers, and strengthening contingency planning for weather disruption.