On Thursday 29 May – a public holiday in France – 750 car and foot passengers are expected to arrive from St Malo, marking the busiest single day for continental arrivals to the Island. This figure is approximately double the previous highest number recorded for a single day and Brittany Ferries is reporting a busy weekend ahead in general from St Malo.

To mark the occasion, VisitGuernsey will be providing live musical entertainment in the passenger terminal on Thursday to enhance the atmosphere and their meet and greet team will welcome the passengers and hand out French maps and information.

The figures mirror the current trend of a significant increase in continental visitors to Guernsey from the beginning of this summer’s schedule. Foot passengers are 191% ahead of last year and overall forward bookings are 123% above the same period.

Paul Acheson, Commercial Director of Brittany Ferries, attributed the positive results to the direct schedule, more frequent sailings and joint marketing with VisitGuernsey.

“It is fantastic to see a record set so early in the season. Even more encouraging is the consistent growth across the summer. Our data indicates that visitors are not just travelling here on day trips, rather they are staying for longer, which is obviously a boost for the local hospitality and tourism sectors.

“In partnership with VisitGuernsey, we have been actively promoting the direct services and improved frequency in Europe and UK, deploying a mix of TV, direct mail and online marketing.”

Zoe Gosling, Lead Marketing Officer at States of Guernsey, commented:

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome so many passengers from France – it’s a great reflection of Guernsey’s appeal. We’ve worked hard ahead of the season to make our French visitors feel welcome, including increasing French-language signage and posters around the harbour.

“To ensure a smooth arrival experience on this particularly busy day, our meet and greet team will be ready with maps, guidance and a warm Guernsey welcome.”

Guernsey Marinas and Immigration have been notified of the busy sailing on 29 May.

Image credit: Tony Rive, Guernsey.