Kent and Thurrock announce new contract for Gravesend to Tilbury Ferry

Kent County Council and Thurrock Council have announced the award of a new long term contract for the operation of the Gravesend to Tilbury passenger ferry service.

The service, which is used by around 200 passengers every day, needs subsidy from the councils to sustain its operation.

Following a tender process, the councils have announced that a new five year contract has been awarded to Jetstream Tours which has been providing the service on a short term basis since a change of operator in May.

KCC cabinet member for transportation Mathew Balfour said: “There has been a lot of hard work behind the scenes to secure the future of this service for the next five years.

“I know how important it is to people in the area with some 120,000 journeys made on the service each year and we’re happy to announce Jetstream Tours will be continuing their work, having recently stepped in to take on the service.

“They have already proven themselves to be a valued partner and we are confident that the service can thrive with them providing it.”

Thurrock Council’s Portfolio Holder for Highways and Transport, Cllr Brian Little said: “I’m very pleased that there is now long term arrangements and commitment to the service for the next five years.

Richard Bain, Managing Director of Jetstream Tours said: “We are delighted to be awarded the new contract and look forward to build on the relationships that we are forming with the Councils and with Passengers.”

• There is a history of a ferry service between Gravesend and Tilbury dating back to the 13th Century.
• The service has operated with subsidy from the councils since 2001 when a previous operator went into administration.
• The service operates from Town Pier, Gravesend which is owned by Gravesham Council and from the Port of Tilbury pontoon in Thurrock.