Staff opened the building to allow people to check in for the afternoon boat, and the couple were told the decision to close between sailings had been made some time ago.

Guernsey Harbours has now clarified that the foot passenger terminal only opens when sailings are due in, with times differing daily due to the ferries schedules. The building is open more often and for longer during the summer months as there are often more ferries sailing to and from Guernsey on most days.

A spokesman said:

“During the winter months, Guernsey Harbours only open the foot passenger terminal on the New Jetty when sailings are due in, these times can vary according to operator timetables.

"It has been practice for many years for Guernsey Harbours to close the terminal when all passenger ferries have departed St Peter Port on any given day and there are no further sailings due into Guernsey. To date we haven’t received many complaints as a result of this policy."

The spokesman also said anyone who does want to head to the Harbour ahead of their scheduled sailing time, can find rest and refreshment available at the White Rock Cafe which is on St Julian’s Emplacement.

Pictured top: Guernsey's St Peter Port Harbour.