Andrew Williamson, Portsmouth International Port's head of cruise and ferry said: "As a lifeline service to the Channel Islands Condor Ferries plays a crucial role making sure goods and passengers can travel efficiently and safely.

"This second ship in Portsmouth means more choice for both passengers and also extra resilience for freight too.

"Following today's successful trials we're looking forward to seeing Condor Islander back in the autumn when it will be fully operational."

As a critical shipping route for Channel Island trade, Portsmouth International Port and Condor Ferries recently agreed a new long-term deal, which cements their partnership until 2033. With sailings 364 days a year, the new addition of the CONDOR ISLANDER and 10-year agreement, provides certainty for this vital freight and passenger service.

John Napton, Condor's CEO, said, "These trials are important for our crews and shore staff in the various ports to familiarise themselves with the new ship, but she will not be ready for carrying passengers for a few months as refurbishment work is still ongoing.

'We are making a number of alterations from Islander's previous operator so there are different requirements involved. Changes include installing a duty-free shop, changes to overnight cabin configurations and refreshing the passenger lounges."

CONDOR ISLANDER was acquired by Condor in April 2023 from New Zealand, where she was operating for StraitNZ as the STRAITSMAN and positioned to Spain via the Panama Canal. She is a conventional passenger and freight ro-pax vessel, 124.9m long, can carry 1,286 lane metres of freight and up to 400 passengers.

Data on CONDOR ISLANDER in the Shippax Database