Larger ferry to be used following surge in bookings for Channel Islands

A larger ship is being brought in following a surge in bookings for trips to the Channel Islands from Poole this summer.

Condor Ferries are going to use a high speed catamaran owned by Brittany Ferries.

The ship, which used to be known as the Normandie Express, can carry more cars and passengers.

Brittany Ferries is a minority shareholder in Condor Ferries and the ship is currently undergoing engineering checks followed by sea trials.

Once the evaluation has been completed and final approval granted, the ferry will visit Poole next month to conduct mooring trials and familiarisation training for Condor’s crews and port staff prior to entry in service.

Elwyn Dop, Condor's operations director, said "With the extra interest in Jersey and Guernsey for travel destinations this summer, the ship will provide greater car and passenger capacity for those wanting to visit these beautiful islands.

"On arrival in Poole, our team and crew will get her ready for service and start sailing in May."

"Interest in ferry travel is significantly up on previous years because of people’s desire to use their own car and benefit from the wide spaces onboard and enjoy fresh sea air on the outer deck.

"With the islands being part of the common travel area, people can take a stress free holiday with no tests before leaving, and no quarantine or testing once they arrive back into the UK."

The newly renamed Condor Voyager carries up to 850 passengers and 235 cars.

The catamaran can travel at 42 knots and the crossing to the Channel Islands can take around three hours.