A Guernsey-based inter-island ferry service resumes sailings today, offering regular crossings to and from Jersey until the end of October.
Islands Unlimited – run by former Harbour Master and Navy and Condor Captain Chad Murray – is going to sail between the islands five days a week throughout the rest of the spring, all of the summer, and early autumn.
Most days will see two sailings in each direction per day with the schedules planned to support inter island sports events, as well as business and leisure travellers.
CEO, Captain Murray said his crew are looking forward to sailing again.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming passengers back and building on the success of last year by providing a service that works for islanders, whether they’re travelling for business, sport or leisure.”
Using its San Pawl vessel, Islands Unlimited can carry around 300 foot passengers per sailing.
In total, 27,000 people used the service in its inaugural season, last summer.
As well as supporting existing demand for inter island travel, neglected in the contracts awarded for cross-channel ferry services, both Visit Guernsey and Visit Jersey are expecting an increase in visitors numbers between the islands thanks to Islands Unlimited.
A spokesperson for Visit Jersey said they’re looking forward to welcoming people from our Bailiwick across the water.
“Improving connectivity between the islands is an important part of growing Jersey’s visitor economy,” they said. “Increased travel from Guernsey creates more opportunities for day visits and short breaks, supporting local businesses and helping to strengthen the overall tourism offer.”
In a further boost to Guernsey’s connectivity, Islands Unlimited said it is working with Brittany Ferries this year to offer ticket sales to people travelling to the Bailiwick, who want to do some island hopping.
Brittany Ferries operates the UK and France to Guernsey passenger and freight ferry services, along with a once-per-week car ferry service to and from Jersey.
Starting this year, Brittany Ferries is also now marketing and selling tickets for Islands Unlimited’s inter island foot passenger service.
This means passengers can book to sail between Guernsey and Jersey aboard the San Pawl through the Brittany Ferries website and reservation system.
Announcing the partnership earlier this year, Captain Murray said it would allow his company to “grow with confidence”.
“Last summer demonstrated the demand for a dependable inter-island service, and this year represents our first full season of operations as we build on that early success.
“Reliability is at the heart of what we do and partnering with Brittany Ferries allows us to grow with confidence, reach a wider audience and provide a service that passengers can trust throughout the season.”