Emeraude says it will keep a boat on the Solidor Five route

Emeraude Lines main vessel Solidor 5 has been left in Cherbourg after its annual refit, while parent company Sogestran argues over who should pay for engineering work due next year.

The company has been using the Solidor 4, but now that has broken down too.

It is claimed Jersey's tourism industry could suffer if Emeraude Lines' main vessel is not in operation by Easter.

Harbours and Airport President, Senator Len Norman, said the company's performance would have to be taken into account when it applies for its licence to be renewed.

He said: "We have to look at the efficiency of the companies that are running the route.

"There are other parties who would be interested in running the route."

Emeraude's Jersey manager Gordon Forrest said he hoped the Solidor 5 would return to the route soon and it did not, the company would charter another vessel.