The Government will review the impact of this summer’s Manche Iles Express sailings before deciding to commit any taxpayer money to next year’s schedule.
This time last year, the governments of Jersey, Guernsey, and Sark collectively agreed to subsidise the France-Channel Islands passenger-only fast ferry for the next 12 months.
A request for financial support came from the Departmental Council of La Manche in Normandy in response to increased operating costs, which it said put the viability of the service at risk.
The Channel Islands’ combined contribution for this year was €370,000 – made up of €200,000 from Jersey, €167,000 from Guernsey, and €3,000 from Sark.
Asked if Jersey’s support would continue into next year, Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel said: “Throughout the 2025 season, Manche Iles Express operated between the Channel Islands and Normandie with the support of the governments of Jersey, Guernsey and Sark.
“The season has only just ended, and we are now reviewing the outcomes. These insights will form part of future discussions with regional government counterparts in France and the neighbouring islands.”
According to official statistics, 1,154 passengers arrived from Carteret in August, a 34% rise on the same month in 2024. Passengers from Carteret represented 3% of all sea passenger arrivals.
In July, 2,204 passengers arrived from Granville, a 32% increase on July 2024.