Fourth firm offers Channel Islands ferry service

The Channel Islands is set to be served by a fourth ferry firm after operator Islands Unlimited published its inter-island summer schedule.

It follows a decision by Jersey and Guernsey's governments to choose different ferry firms to operate their main sea links for the next 15 years, with French firm Manche Iles also offering a passenger ferry.

Jersey's government opted for Danish firm DFDS, while Guernsey chose to stay with Condor - both have indicated they plan to operate limited services between the islands, but timetables have not yet been published.

Islands Unlimited managing director Chad Murray said: "We are excited that we will be offering a daily inter-island foot passenger service this summer."

Mr Murray said a standard adult return fare with his firm would be priced at about £67.

The firm's schedule offers daily services between Guernsey and Jersey, running from 07:00 until 19:45 on weekdays (other than Tuesdays when it stops at 16:45).

It will also run from 07:00 until 21:45 at weekends.

Mr Murray said the new summer schedule would be subject to "some final discussions" with Ports of Jersey.

The firm's boss said: "We want to meet the needs of the islanders, as well as visitors.

"Following stakeholder engagement, this offers the best fit for the communities, commuters, local business, sport and event, as well as offering great day trips for visitors to support tourism."

Islands Unlimited has said its service could start in June.

Chairman of the Guernsey Tourism Partnership, Ant Ford-Parker, said: "We are delighted that this bold initiative is nearing completion.

"The implications for tourism as well as the local communities are enormous.

"We wish them every success."

The BBC has approached the States of Guernsey and the Government of Jersey for comment.

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