HD FERRIES is hopeful it could be back transporting passengers again before too long. The company is continuing emergency talks with Jersey Harbours to find a solution to reinstate its ramp permit and allow it to resume services as soon as possible.

Economic Development assistant minister Alan Maclean said yesterday: ‘I am delighted that discussions this morning were constructive and appear to have identified a way forward which should achieve the early resumption of HD Ferries’ services.’

The loss of one engine and poor weather have caused a number of manoeuvring issues for its vessel, HD1.

It sustained damage in the docks in St Malo on Wednesday and on Friday, the fast ferry to Guernsey had to turn back to Jersey amid speculation the engine room was taking in water.

On Saturday, the vessel was stopped from leaving St Peter Port Harbour and its Jersey ramp permit was suspended for the second time in just over two weeks.

The operating parameters and procedures for HD1 to run with three engines will be revised to the satisfaction of the Bahamas Maritime Authority over the next few days.

HD Ferries chief executive Chris Howe-Davies apologised to customers for the recent disruptions.

‘I believe that as a result of the work being jointly carried out over the next few days, we will have an even more robust service better able to cope with unplanned events and inclement weather conditions,’ he said.

Condor Ferries Channel Islands general manager Yan Milner said it was difficult to assess whether the matter had had much of an impact.

‘It’s always busy at this time of year, so I couldn’t say we have been inundated with business as a result,’ he said. However, a Condor ferry announcement on Sunday blamed some delays on HD’s problems.