RECENT NEWS 

Jetstream Tours Press Statement

1st March 2024

Jetstream Tours has operated the Gravesend-Tilbury Ferry on behalf of Kent County Council since 2017 and are proud to have been able to provide these services to Kent and Thurrock for the past seven years.

Following a second extension to our existing contract, in November 2023, we became aware of funding issues which started through the withdrawal of funding from Thurrock Council. We have maintained positive talks solely with Kent County Council throughout this period whilst a consultation period was entered.

Regrettably due to ongoing concerns and uncertainties presented around future funding and an abandoned procurement process by Kent County council for longer-term prospects, Jetstream Tours has been unable to enter into negotiations with the council. Further short-term extensions to our existing contract sadly are not tenable for our business and staff. We feel it ultimately would lead to further protracted job insecurities and have an adverse effect on our ability to adequately employ and ensure continuity of a regular and reliable ferry service.  

We regret that Jetstream Tours will not be continuing our services beyond our contracted period of the 31^st March 2024.  We understand that the council have been seeking an alternative operator to continue the service. 

Jetstream Tours and our staff would like to thank ferry users for their ongoing support in this troubling time and we hope that a suitable funding solution can be found to sustain a regular and reliable ferry going forward.