What Crew Members Say About Islander

On July 3, 2024, the 'Condor Islander' ferry experienced a significant incident while attempting to dock at St. Helier harbour in Jersey. The vessel collided with the Elizabeth East Berth, resulting in damage that is currently being evaluated. This unfortunate allision caused a delay in the ferry's scheduled departures to Guernsey and Portsmouth as the ship's starboard side scraped the eastern berth during its arrival. Engineers conducted an assessment of the ferry, which remained stationary in Jersey until 9:30 a.m. on July 4. In response to the situation, the Jersey Hospitality Association stepped in, providing accommodations for over 100 passengers affected by the delay, including 53 young students and their six teachers. Additionally, freight shipments were redirected to alternative vessels to ensure continued service. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.

On April 18, 2023, the 'Condor Islander,' which previously served as the Cook Strait ferry 'Straitsman,' is scheduled to depart from Wellington at noon. This well-traveled Bluebridge ferry has been sold to Condor Ferries in the United Kingdom, where it will provide crucial transportation on the route from Portsmouth to the Channel Islands. The ambitious journey to Europe will take approximately seven weeks, with the vessel making its way through the Panama Canal and across the Atlantic Ocean. The first of its planned stops will be in Papeete before it reaches its destination in Europe. Upon arrival, the 'Condor Islander' will undergo a two-month dry docking process to prepare for its new role, scheduled to commence operations in the third quarter of this year. This vessel has been a fixture on the Cook Strait since its launch in 2010, and its sale was finalized on April 3, marking the end of an era for local ferry service.

On February 23, 2023, a crew member from Bluebridge experienced an unfortunate injury while on duty aboard the 'Straitsman' vessel. The incident occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. when a truck, reversing on the ship's main deck, struck the staff member. Following the accident, he was promptly transported to a hospital in Wellington for medical attention, where he was diagnosed with a broken wrist. Fortunately, the crew member was treated and later released on the same day, now recuperating comfortably at home. Bluebridge is actively collaborating with relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident thoroughly. For more details, visit the complete report with a photo at Stuff.co.nz.