The company is to phase in the new policy for inter-island sailings as well as to Poole and Portsmouth starting from 1 February next year. The change will be enforced for all passengers from 1 March.
Paul Luxon, Condor’s chief executive, said: ‘We recognise it may take a little time for everyone to get accustomed so we will take a “light touch” for the first month and ensure this is communicated as widely as possible before and at the time of travel.’
Mr Luxon said that the company is introducing the new policy to adopt best practice and fall into line with international standards ahead of mandatory ID becoming a regulatory requirement for ferry travel at the end of 2019.
Mr Luxon said: ‘We have to introduce ID on all routes at the end of next year anyway so we are looking to be ahead of the curve. Adopting a consistent approach to working with all passengers is right and it is normal these days for everyone to be carrying some proof around with them.
‘The States of Jersey and States of Guernsey would like to see mandatory ID and we are also mindful of any potential impact on the common travel area so have taken time to evaluate its introduction.’
Acceptable forms include a valid or recently expired passport, driving licence or national identity card.
Children under the age of 16 who are travelling with an adult will not be required to carry photo ID. For more details on acceptable forms of ID go to condorferries.co.uk and search ‘Do I need a valid passport to travel?’
