The high-speed passenger ferry Tarifa Jet sustained damage to its stern after making contact with the east berth at Elizabeth Harbour while arriving in St Helier. The incident occurred during the vessel’s approach to the harbour on Sunday evening.
The ferry is operated by DFDS, which confirmed that the vessel struck the berth structure during docking. The contact resulted in damage to the stern of the craft, though no passengers or crew members were reported injured and all individuals on board were able to disembark safely.
Following the incident, the operator cancelled the scheduled evening sailing from Jersey to St Malo and subsequently adjusted several sailings in the coming days while inspections were undertaken. Company representatives indicated that alternative arrangements had been introduced for the St Malo route, with the vessel Stena Vinga scheduled to operate the crossing while remaining in St Helier overnight. They also confirmed that departures to Portsmouth and the corresponding return voyage had been cancelled as part of the revised schedule.
The operator further stated that contingency planning was underway in an effort to maintain services during the Easter travel period, including the possible deployment of an additional relief vessel. Passengers were advised that further updates regarding the holiday schedule would be provided once operational arrangements had been finalised.
Authorities from Ports of Jersey commenced inspections of both the vessel and harbour infrastructure after the incident. Officials reported that specialist teams, including divers and confined-space inspection crews, had been deployed to examine the east berth linkspan and associated facilities to determine the extent of any damage.
The Tarifa Jet is an 86-metre high-speed catamaran ferry capable of speeds of up to 42 knots and normally operates passenger and vehicle services between Jersey, Guernsey and St Malo. The vessel can accommodate roughly 769 passengers and 145 vehicles.
An investigation involving the ferry operator, port authorities and the vessel’s flag state has been initiated to determine the circumstances that led to the allision.