Overall bookings across DFDS's Jersey services are up by an even greater margin, outpacing growth seen elsewhere in the Channel Islands sea travel market.

To date, more than 80,000 passengers have booked to travel with DFDS to and from Jersey in 2026, underlining sustained demand for ferry services linking the island with the UK and France.

The ferry operator said the strong January performance had been driven largely by the continued success of its 24-hour fare, offering return crossings for GBP 32 (EUR 34).

Ana and Marcus Calvani, Co-CEOs of the Jersey Hospitality Association, said they were encouraged by the momentum being seen across the sector.

"We're pleased that the collaboration between the industry, ferry operator and government is showing signs of positive strong growth and confidence, creating opportunities to further develop offers and increase bookings," they said. "The development of DFDS Holidays, new partnerships and favourable sailing times from St Malo are set to benefit the Island, businesses and residents, and we're looking forward to seeing more strong numbers as we go through the year."

DFDS said overall demand had remained strong since the start of the year, reflecting ongoing interest in short-break travel and value-led pricing. The positive performance comes against a backdrop of robust sea travel volumes to the Channel Islands, with Jersey continuing to attract a significant share of passenger traffic.

The company also confirmed that its forward bookings for the 2026 summer season are encouraging. Both the Poole–Jersey and St Malo–Jersey routes are showing increases compared with the same point last year, while more inbound group travel has already been secured for the coming summer than travelled in the whole of the previous year.

Chris Parker, Jersey Route Director for DFDS, said the figures reflected growing confidence in the Jersey routes.

"Seeing such strong growth across our Jersey services, alongside a very positive forward booking position for the summer, gives us confidence in the continued strength of demand for travel to and from the Island," he said. "We are also pleased with the response to our 24-hour fare, which has exceeded expectations and clearly resonated with both local travellers and visitors from France."

DFDS said it would continue to work closely with partners in Jersey, the UK and France to support inbound tourism and drive passenger growth across its Channel routes.

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