Brittany Ferries returns to pre-Covid carryings over summer

Brittany Ferries is on track for a third consecutive year of growth after reporting a rise in summer passenger carryings.

 

Numbers rose by 3% year on year in the June to September period across 12 routes.

 

The ferry company handled more than 1.2 million passengers, up 33,341 on the same peak travel period in 2024.

 

A total of 25,000 more passengers travelled to and from Normandy from the UK and Ireland than the previous summer, a rise of 4.5%.

 

New hybrid ship Guillaume de Normandie was deployed on Portsmouth-Caen, described as the company’s “workhorse route”, handling around 40% of all passengers.

 

Chief executive Christopher Mathieu said: “We continue to scale what seemed to be an insurmountable mountain when the Covid crisis struck. 

 

“These latest figures are proof that we are getting stronger every year and I am delighted that we continue to grow. Our path to the future looks brighter than it has done for many years.

 

“This only comes thanks to careful management of our fleet. That includes adding new ships and our ability to move swiftly when opportunity knocks.

 

“I must also thank all those who work within our company, on board and on shore for their hard work and dedication. 

 

“Finally, we must never forget the unwavering support, commitment and confidence of our farmer-shareholders with whom we stand shoulder to shoulder in continuing this beautiful venture.”

 

Company president Jean-Marc Roué added: “We have indeed returned to pre-Covid business volumes and have secured the jobs of our seafarers, despite the enormous difficulties caused by the health crisis of 2020. 

 

“We continue to lead the way on our journey towards energy transition.”