DFDS strengthens service with Commodore Goodwill acquisition

DFDS has acquired the vessel Commodore Goodwill to enhance lifeline freight services connecting Jersey with Portsmouth and St Malo, emphasising the operator’s commitment to providing reliable and efficient freight solutions for the island.  

The introduction of the Commodore Goodwill will offer increased freight capacity for Jersey and enable refined scheduling to better serve the island’s businesses and communities. 

Following the acquisition, Commodore Goodwill will be reflagged under the UK flag and renamed Caesarea Trader in homage to Jersey’s Latin name, Caesarea.  The vessel is 126 meters long, has a cargo capacity of 1250 metres, equivalent to around 80 trailers, and has served the Channel Islands since 1996. 

The vessel will undergo drydocking and preparation before being deployed later this year, replacing the MV Arrow, the leased vessel currently serving Jersey’s freight needs. 

These improvements are part of DFDS’s ongoing efforts to optimise its operations, while maintaining plans for future fleet refurbishment, including the introduction of a new RoRo vessel. 

Chris Parker, Jersey Route Director at DFDS, said: “We are delighted to be able to announce the acquisition of Goodwill which will provide additional capacity and better schedules for our freight customers. We are working hard to get Goodwill ready for service and in the meantime MV Arrow and her crew will continue to provide an excellent service for the island. This acquisition does not change our plans for new vessels to serve Jersey which will include a new RoRo vessel.” 

DFDS remains dedicated to supporting Jersey’s connectivity and economic resilience through dependable freight services and continuous investment in its fleet.