Ferry passenger numbers 'increased significantly'

A ferry operator has said the number of passengers "increased significantly" during May compared to the same month last year.

DFDS said more than 16,000 people travelled to and from Jersey during half term.

It said overall numbers were up by 20% compared to May 2025 and the largest rise had been on the Jersey to St Malo route which had ferried 26% more passengers.

Sailings to Poole had an 11% increase in passenger numbers, while the Portsmouth route had a rise of 4%, DFDS added.

The firm said summer bookings were currently 25% ahead of where they had been at the same point in 2025.

It said nearly 200,000 passengers had made bookings for travel on DFDS Jersey services during 2026.

The operator said the rise in travel between France and Jersey had been supported by "strong demand for day trips" and its 24-hour fare, which allowed passengers to stay overnight and return the following day for the same price as a day trip.

Route director for DFDS in Jersey Chris Parker said it had been "encouraging" to see the increased demand.

"We have worked hard to provide customers with greater choice and flexibility, particularly on our French services, and it is pleasing to see more islanders and visitors taking advantage of those opportunities," he added.

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