Ferry Passengers From Poole Up 31%

Friday, 30 September 2022 07:00

Condor says car ferry passenger numbers from the UK were up by almost a third over the peak summer period.

The ferry firm says it transported 3,300 more cars here from Poole in July, August and September.

That is a 31% increase on 2019, and Condor estimates that is 8,250 more visitors to the island.

CEO John Napton says that is down to the direct sailings it has been running this year.

"These numbers would not have been possible with the 2019 schedule. We have been able to offer direct sailings from the UK which allow us to carry more passengers at peak times, concentrated around weekends when most people want to travel."

He says visitors are staying longer, benefiting the hotel trade.

Mr Napton is also reporting an increase in islanders travelling to the UK with their car, and says that winter bookings are 'encouraging'.

"The success of this summer, coupled with positive indicators for next year, offers optimism that 2023 could be a good season for the Islands for UK visitors wanting to travel overseas without any Brexit uncertainty. We will be working closely once again with our industry partners to maximise the opportunity."

Condor's 2023 summer timetable will be available in October.

Talks are ongoing between Guernsey. Jersey and Condor Ferries about future passenger services, with the ferry firm saying earlier this month that it still hopes to add another conventional ferry to its fleet.