Harbours gears up for Island Games influx

Thursday 29 June 2023

Guernsey Harbours has been involved in months of preparation as the Town Seafront gets ready to host some of the showcase events of the NatWest International Island Games.

Harbourmaster Captain David Barker said: “We know that it’s going to entail greater numbers of passengers to the island than usual, however we have prepared extensively for that and we welcome the opportunity for Guernsey to host such an important celebration of local sport.”

The Opening Ceremony on Saturday 8th July will take place on the Town Seafront, with entertainment starting from 5pm, including the parade of around 2,000 athletes from North Beach to the Albert Pier.

This involves changes to parking arrangements and road closures around the harbour.

Guernsey Ports has also been liaising with commercial operators over the timing of sailings and the cruise ship schedule.

The triathlon relay, which is the final event of the Games on Friday 14th July, involves preparations on land and at sea. 

That day also features the half marathon and cycling criterium events on the seafront.

“There will be a swim course in the harbour, which our work boat and other vessels will be involved in setting out. Marina staff are also involved in making sure that nothing interferes with the swimmers on the day," said Mr Barker.

“On land, there are changes to parking arrangements and road closures to make sure the cycle and road races can happen without any risk to the participants or spectators. Those parking restrictions will include the Castle Emplacement and we will be on hand to make sure those restrictions are adhered to.”

Guernsey Harbours is also welcoming the return of Tour de Ports de la Manche, a popular sailing regatta whose arrival in Guernsey waters will coincide with the Games.

Between the two events, head of ports operations Jerome Davis said moorings in Guernsey’s visitor marina are in high demand.

“The marina staff are going to be working really hard to accommodate everyone. We have the return of Tour de Ports that week, some of the support teams for the athletes are coming by boat, and it’s the height of summer, so we will be welcoming visitors unconnected to the Games as well.”

Chief operating officer Ross Coppolo said: “Planning for the Island Games has been a significant collaborative effort involving a substantial number of our operational teams.

“We want to ensure users of our facilities have a great experience in Guernsey, particularly as our Ports are the first and last steps in that journey.”