Ferry service a ‘tremendous opportunity’
HOPES for an Alderney ferry service now seem to rest on an invitation by the States of Guernsey and the States of Jersey to operators for expressions of interest to run a subsidised inter-island ferry for 2018 and beyond.
The new proposal is primarily to provide a day return service to and from Jersey and Guernsey and it would be subsidised by the two governments.
Both governments’ main stated objective in the proposal is ‘To deliver additional passenger numbers to both islands, resulting in increased economic impact due to additional spending, provide an improved offer for “island hopping” for visitors, and improve social, cultural and sporting links between the two islands.’
But it also contains the potential for a ferry operator to call in at Alderney, or development of a separate service to the island. The document says: ‘The States of Alderney would like to see a regular passenger-only ferry service between Guernsey/Alderney and possibly Jersey. Funding would be available from the States of Alderney to assist with this service.
‘This option may either be considered as an addition to the Jersey/Guernsey service or as a separate service.’
Chairman of the Policy and Finance Committee James Dent said: ‘The States of Alderney are working with the SoG on a joint initiative for an inter-island passenger ferry service. Although Alderney is participating, the call for initial expressions of interest is being driven by the SoG and SoJ.
‘The SoA see this as a tremendous opportunity to obtain a scheduled ferry service at minimal cost to the island.’
Alderney Shipping’s Bruno Kay-Mouat said the size of the vessel which wins the contract would dictate whether it would come to Alderney.
Regardless of who wins the tender, he believes Alderney would do well to ‘court’ Manche Iles Express. Their ships were tied up in the islands during the day and Alderney could offer a subsidy to bring in a day- trip service two to three times per week.
‘I understand that Manche Iles are looking at [the SoG/J inter-island service], which from an Alderney point of view could be great as all their ships are suitable for Alderney,’ he said. ‘I would suggest that the States of Alderney really do try and work with an operator such as Manche Iles, and this would mean not just offering them cash, but also dialogue and continuity.’
Full story in Friday's Guernsey Press
