Busy end of August at the harbour

Wednesday 31 August 2022

Last weekend was the final one of this summer before French schools returned for a new term, and it was marked with an influx of visitors at St Peter Port's marinas.

As well as a number of pleasure boats mooring in the Victoria Marina, the island welcomed the two largest cruise ships of this season. The Emerald Princess and Virtuosa, pictured above, sailed in on Friday 26 August, carrying between them over 7,000 passengers – many of which decided to come ashore.

French mariners made the trip over in increasing numbers as well, following new restrictions as a result of Brexit. 

Guernsey Ports Marina Manager, Steve Lowe said: "Though we will still welcome a few more French visiting boats into September, the Rentrée Scolaire really does mark the end of the French holiday season so it’s great to see this last influx.

“We are very aware that, since Brexit brought in the change in border regulations, French nationals can no longer come to Guernsey using identity cards, and many do not have passports.

“We know that many of our regular visitors have had no option but to cruise up and down the French coast which may be lovely, but it’s not Guernsey. We’ve missed them this season, but we know they’ll be even more eager to come back next year.”

Pictured: Visiting cruise ships have bolstered Guernsey's visitor numbers again this year.