The operator said it faces an ETS bill of around EUR 27 million in 2026, with no allowance made for its recent fleet investment. The company added that the figure applies before the UK introduces an equivalent scheme for ships in British waters. Brittany Ferries also stated it has repaid half of the loan provided to support the company during the pandemic, with the remainder still outstanding.

Routes and ships

The company will sell two vessels as part of the changes. The Poole–Cherbourg route served by the 1992-built BARFLEUR will close from November 2026, and the ship will be sold; a daily Portsmouth–Cherbourg service will operate in its place. The 2007-built COTENTIN, which runs Cherbourg–Rosslare, will also be sold, while that route continues with other vessels.

Brittany Ferries additionally intends to close the Portsmouth–Le Havre route from October 2026, citing subsidised competition on the Dieppe–Newhaven route. The company said it has operated the route while legal challenges remain under consideration in Brussels.

Guernsey, Poole and Cherbourg changes

From 1 November 2026, ships serving Guernsey, Poole and Cherbourg will move to a revised schedule. ISLANDER will operate a triangular Portsmouth–Guernsey–Cherbourg–Portsmouth rotation, while the fast ferry VOYAGER will continue serving Poole–Guernsey, with the option to continue to St Malo. The operator said the new Guernsey–Cherbourg connection opens access to the Cherbourg freight hub.

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