Current ferry schedule fails to meet travel needs between Guernsey and Jersey

In the Channel Islands, specifically between Guernsey and Jersey, concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of the ferry service provided. Russ Fossey, director of Guernsey Arts, has described the inter-island ferry service as 'not healthy', highlighting that the current schedule only allows for one return journey each week, which is on Wednesdays. This limited schedule does not cater to the majority of travel needs, as most people tend to travel on weekends when they have more free time. Fossey emphasized that the Wednesday schedule fails to meet the travel demands of the regional audience. He believes that weekend travel is crucial for the vibrancy of inter-island activities and cultural exchanges. Furthermore, Fossey stated that the insights he has regarding the ferry operations from Guernsey are incomplete, as he awaits the outcome of Jersey's tender process which is currently underway. This situation arises from a larger effort by the governmental bodies of the islands to optimize travel and transport connections. Recently, the government of Guernsey took a significant step by selecting Brittany Ferries, the umbrella entity for the existing operator Condor, to manage its ferry services for the next 15 years, thus ensuring more stable travel options for its residents and visitors. Meanwhile, Jersey is still working out its arrangements for ferry service operations, so the impact of these decisions on inter-island travel remains uncertain. Fossey has called for an increase in not only inter-island travel but also connections from the UK and France to the Channel Islands. He believes the region has immense potential for boosting tourism and enhancing the movement of people and goods. The ongoing changes may lead to improved ferry services that better align with community and commercial needs in the near future.