Emeraude's Jersey to St Malo service was suspended in December

Ferry operators have never had to sign up to a service level agreement before, although one has been in place for the northerly routes for some time.

No specific details of the agreement have been released by the States.

But Senator Philip Ozouf said any operator who agrees to the terms and conditions can deliver freight, car and passenger services on the route.

In January it was announced that States' help could be given to Emeraude to restart its ferry services between Jersey and St Malo.

Emeraude, which suspended its service in December after Solidor Five suffered engine problems, said it could not afford a replacement boat on the loss-making route.