The time it takes to disembark from boats defies belief
AS A frequent traveller to Jersey from Guernsey, I am in complete agreement with Bob’s letter (Open Lines, 5 July, Why delay in disembarking). Both embarking and disembarking are a bit of a joke, with scant regard for foot passengers. The time it takes to get off both the Clipper and the Liberation defies belief. The tying up pantomime, oops sorry, operation, is an event to behold, with a cast of thousands rushing around in ever decreasing circles carrying out, presumably, health and safety rituals. In the time it takes, you could read a novel and write a letter home explaining why you are running late. Why don’t Condor fit a gangplank? Simples.
In comparison I travel often to Croatia, by air to Split, then a 50-minute ferry to the island of Brac. Tying up there is a study in efficiency, it’s slick and professional. Lorries, cars, bikes and foot passengers all waiting for the ramp to drop, then the whole assembly moves off in an orderly fashion. The whole process takes but minutes, a refreshing non-PC experience. In addition, the ferry punctuality is such that you can set your watch by their sailings (10 a day).
But back here perhaps there is change in the air, a tunnel or bridge between the islands. Mind you, the chance of our politicians changing their habits of a lifetime and making a decision is remote. Rising sea levels will submerge the islands long before that happens.
TERRY HAMON
ADDRESS WITHHELD.