Cancelled ferry service causes issues for Guernsey sports clubs

Sports clubs have said the suspension of a passenger ferry service between Jersey and Guernsey has "caused problems".

Islands Unlimited suspended its service until 10 September following a "major failure" to the MV San Pawl's starboard main engine.

Guernsey Cricket said it has had to charter boats to Jersey in order to compete in upcoming matches.

The club's chief operating officer Richard Headington said it was "dependent on the ferry" and had to spent a "significant amount of extra money" to cover the charter costs.

Headington said chartering boats was the most "economical alternative" but the cancellation of the service caused a "bit of a panic".

He said the club used the ferry service "quite extensively" with many sides travelling between the islands over the summer.

He added that the club may look to plan a "contingency plan" in the future.

Emily Squire, president of the Guernsey Triathlon Club said the ferry service was "key" and "we are a bit stuck without it".

The club is set to host Jersey Tri Club athletes for the Granite Weekender on Saturday and Sunday, the biggest triathlon it offers with about 30 athletes expected to travel.

She said the athletes could not fly over with their bikes and the "smaller boat charters cost more money so it does make you wonder whether the competitions can go ahead".

Squire said the club had received support.

"Brittany Ferries have offered to bring everyone's bikes over and Bailiwick Boat Charters will do two runs to bring all the athletes over, so all the athletes are going to make it."

Islands Unlimited said the suspension of the ferry service was introduced to ensure the "safety of passengers, crew and the vessel".

It apologised and thanked people for their "patience and understanding", adding every affected booking would receive a full refund.

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Ferry service remains suspended after engine fault

Ferry sailings suspended after engine failure