The Guernsey-based San Pawl has passed its annual safety checks meaning Islands Unlimited can continue its inter-island services this year.
The company, owned by former harbour master, naval officer, and Condor captain Chad Murray, launched last year to fill a gap in the ferry schedules created when Brittany Ferries and DFDS started running Guernsey and Jersey’s freight and car/foot passenger ferry services respectively.
The ferry firm said its team have shown their “commitment to Channel Island communities” which has been reinforced by their vessel passing its Annual Safety Survey.
That inspection means the San Pawl has a new ‘Passenger Ship Safety Certificate’.
It was issued in Malta, where the San Pawl is registered, and it is a “vital part of the vessel’s statutory compliance requirements”.
The inspection included a detailed assessment of all critical safety systems, onboard equipment, operational procedures, and crew readiness.
The San Pawl received “excellent” results confirming it “continues to operate at the highest levels of safety and performance”.
“The strong result is a direct reflection of the crew’s consistent commitment to maintaining rigorous standards on board, ensuring passengers can travel with confidence across the Channel Islands,” said an Islands Unlimited spokesperson.
“This achievement underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to safety, reliability, and the communities it serves in Guernsey and Jersey. With the renewal of its certification now complete, SAN PAWL will continue its normal operations, delivering dependable and safe transport for all.”
Having launched a foot passenger service between Guernsey and Jersey last year, Islands Unlimited is looking to widen its market this year.
Service resumed last month with the boat due to sail between the islands twice a day on five days a week from next month until the end of the summer. There are additional sailings planned on Bank Holidays and other occasions too.
Islands Unlimited is also working with Brittany Ferries, with the latter now marketing and selling tickets for the local firm’s Guernsey–Jersey route.