Guernsey more positive than Jersey about travel

Residents in Guernsey are feeling more positive than those in Jersey and the Isle of Man about off-island travel, a survey has revealed.

People were asked about their satisfaction with cost, reliability and choice of destinations from their island.

The results of the survey conducted by Island Global Research, a market research and consultancy company, between January and February this year were compared to a similar one which happened in August 2019.

A total of 2,473 residents from Guernsey, Jersey and the Isle of Man took part.

Managing director Lindsay Jeffries said the latest findings highlighted the need for "ongoing investment, clear planning, and open communication" to ensure the islands remained well-connected.

The research found 39% of people surveyed in Guernsey said they were satisfied with the cost of sea travel - an increase of 17% since 2019.

Meanwhile 43% of Guernsey residents said they were happy with the reliability of the island's ferry links.

The figure is up from 2019, where only 23% of Guernsey residents were happy with the ferry services.

People surveyed said they thought the signing of a deal with Brittany Ferries had improved confidence in Guernsey's sea links, and delivered a more dependable timetable to the UK.

Figures showed 11% of people were satisfied with the cost of flying off-island - the same percentage as 2019.

Island Global Research said residents had repeatedly said costs were too high for families.

The survey also found 38% of Guernsey residents had high confidence in the security of vital sea and air links over the next five years - the highest of all three islands - Jersey's figures were at 20% and the Isle of Man at 20%.

In Jersey, 10% of people said they were satisfied with both the cost and reliability of ferry travel.

However 23% of Jersey respondents said they were happy with the cost of air travel.

Jeffries said: "Guernsey's sea travel performs comparatively well, but overall levels of satisfaction and confidence in future provision remain low.

"These findings highlight the need for ongoing investment, clear planning, and open communication to help ensure our islands stay well‑connected and supported in the years ahead."

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook. Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.