Harbour improvements to cope with extra travellers

Guernsey ferry traveller numbers have been one of the tourism success stories of the summer.

The direct ferry service between the island and France, combined with the extension of the scheme allowing French day trippers to use ID cards rather than passports for travel, have seen St Malo traveller numbers increase by nearly 60%.

And overall across all routes there has been an 8% increase in travellers to nearly 160,000 as of July.

Acting harbour master James Way said the new daily inter-island sailings by Islands Unlimited and the services operated by Manche Iles Express had also helped Guernsey to have an unprecedented number of passengers this summer.

‘With so many extra passengers, footfall through the harbour terminal has been a lot higher this summer,’ he said.

‘During the recent August bank holiday weekend, for example, an additional 3,900 passengers travelled through the harbour compared to last year.

‘This increase has, at times, led to longer wait times at passport control both in the passenger terminal and the vehicle compound. As such, we have been working closely with operators on practical steps to improve the flow of passengers through the harbour.’

Extra staff are being scheduled in the terminal at peak times and Brittany Ferries is opening check-in early when there are large numbers of vehicles booked to travel.

‘We continue to work with operators to improve arrangements for next year,’ Mr Way said.

‘We encourage all travellers to arrive in good time for check-in and to follow their operator’s guidance to help ensure a smooth journey through the harbour.

‘Overall, the increase in ferry travel to and from the island is welcomed by Guernsey Ports. We are committed to maximising the use of our facilities, and enabling growth in connectivity, which we are seeing in both commercial passenger services and private leisure travel.’

Some changes have already been made to improve the situation.

‘Following a competitive tender process, the cafe facilities in the harbour terminal and vehicle compound were redeveloped this spring by Brittany Ferries, who run both facilities,’ said Mr Way.

‘The operator has modernised the food and beverage outlets, while also introducing duty-free shops in both locations, which have been well-received by passengers.

‘Meanwhile, as part of an ongoing project to brighten up the terminal, we have been working with local artists to improve the look and feel of the departure lounge. These improvements have been designed to increase commercial opportunities and enhance the traveller experience without using up any additional space.’

More improvements are also planned.

‘In the vehicle compound, we will be re-introducing a dedicated waiting area and shelter for cyclists in the coming weeks,’ said Mr Way.

‘Following the reorganisation of that area, we were regrettably unable to provide such a facility this summer. That is now being addressed, and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.’