Extra ferry services to the Channel Islands will be launched next year as travellers search for value in their getaways in the face of the cost of living crisis. Condor Ferries claims the uplift in numbers has been caused by a trend for self-drive trips
Holidaymakers looking to avoid rising car rental costs and enjoy great value have been choosing flight-free escapes closer to home, while Brexit uncertainty and airport travel chaos have also pushed people to consider trips to Jersey and Guernsey. During the peak travel period from July to September, Condor Ferries carried 4,700 more cars to the Channel Islands on its high-speed services from Poole.
This was almost a quarter uplift in car passengers compared to the same three months in 2019, and brought an additional 11,750 visitors to the islands. Travellers are also staying longer than previously benefitting hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions. After upping the number of sailings this year, Condor is now increasing it again for 2023.
Next July also sees Guernsey host the hotly anticipated NatWest International Island Games. The biannual event unites athletes from 24 islands to compete in 18 sports at an international standard. It will bring competitors and spectators from across the world to the island and increase visits from sports fans and tourists.
John Napton, CEO at Condor Ferries, said: “This year, we extended the 2019 schedule to offer more direct and weekend sailings, which has contributed to a successful summer season. This is especially good news for the Channel Islands’ tourism and hospitality industries, helping them to bounce back after the pandemic. 2022’s passenger numbers together with current travel trends make us very optimistic for 2023. Increasing capacity during peak times ensures we can meet demand and offer passengers a choice of sailings.
“After a summer of airport chaos and flight cancellations and rising travel costs, more people seek the convenience and value ferry holidays offer. They are also looking for destinations that are easy to reach and not too far from home – the Channel Islands offer all this, warmer weather and so much more. We advise passengers to book 2023 sailings early to secure the crossings that best suit their plans.”
You can view the 2023 timetable here.
