Islands Unlimited ends season early as San Pawl engine faults halt service

Islands Unlimited halts San Pawl service after engine faults, ending the season early; operators assess repairs and passenger options.

Islands Unlimited ends season early as San Pawl engine faults halt service
Liberal News
Publish: 04.09.2026
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The Islands Unlimited ferry service between Guernsey and Jersey has ended its 2026 season early after a fault was found in the starboard main engine of the 316-seat high-speed catamaran San Pawl, the company said; operations manager Jack Kitching stated that sourcing, fitting and testing the replacement part would extend beyond the planned season end.

Company engineers identified the cause following an extensive technical investigation. The operator said the timescales required to obtain and install the replacement engine component make returning the vessel to service before the scheduled season close unfeasible.

San Pawl launched service in 2025 and recorded more than 30,000 passenger movements in 2026. Islands Unlimited apologised for disruption and disappointment to affected passengers and said it intends to complete the engine replacement and related works during the off-season to restore resilience to operations.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

The company confirmed an unforeseeable technical failure in San Pawl’s starboard main engine and detailed that all realistic options to restore service were explored. Management indicated the replacement and associated testing cannot be completed within the remaining season timeframe.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

  • San Pawl’s starboard main engine suffered a technical failure identified after extensive investigation.
  • Islands Unlimited halted the Guernsey–Jersey service early because replacement part installation and testing extend beyond the season.
  • The vessel carried over 30,000 passengers in 2026 and the company plans to complete repairs before returning in 2027.
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Liberal News
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