French firm Manche Iles Express has taken over the Victor Hugo ferry service and it is adding a new boat and new routes to its timetables.

That will allow Guernsey and Sark residents to travel to Carteret and Granville via Jersey.

The move comes as the Channel Islands struggle to reverse a decline in visitor numbers.

I can't think of anything better at this time to start our tourism season Mike O'Hara

Mike O'Hara of Guernsey Commerce and Employment, said: "We have always had a good presence in the French market, but links have always been a problem.

"We believe it will lead to a lot of French tourists coming here and I am also delighted that a lot of Guernsey and Jersey people will be able to go over there too.

"I can't think of anything better at this time to start our tourism season. It's wonderful."

He said the ferry would also help increase sporting, cultural and commercial links.

"The Le Manche government has put a lot of time and effort into this and see the Channel Islands as a real market for them," he said.

"There are a lot of commercial and sporting links which open the door to business."

Hugo Gros, president of Manche Iles Express, said the firm was confident it could make the services pay and increase tourist numbers between France and the Channel Islands.

"Last year there were just 80,000 passengers and we are very confident that with good marketing we can get it back to 140,000."