The 2025 holiday season will see the Channel Islands more connected than ever, thanks to Blue Islands’ expanded seasonal services. The airline is introducing direct flights linking Jersey, Dublin, Bruges, Guernsey, and Ostend over key Christmas and New Year dates, providing travelers with quick and convenient access to some of Europe’s most popular festive destinations.
Historically, direct flights between Jersey and Dublin were only available during the summer months. This year, however, Blue Islands is extending the route into the festive period, making it possible for islanders and visitors alike to enjoy Dublin’s renowned holiday celebrations without lengthy connections.
Festive Flight Schedule
The Jersey–Dublin route will operate on four specific dates: 23, 27, and 30 December 2025, and 3 January 2026. In addition, the airline will run direct flights from Jersey and Guernsey to Bruges via Ostend, allowing passengers to explore Belgium’s famous Christmas markets and winter attractions.
These flights are perfectly timed for short breaks or extended stays, giving travellers the flexibility to plan a quick holiday escape or a longer seasonal adventure.
Boost for Tourism and Local Economies
The introduction of these winter routes is expected to bring a significant economic boost to all six destinations. Winter is traditionally a quieter period for many tourism markets, but the added connectivity will extend the visitor season and bring fresh opportunities for hospitality, retail, and attractions.
Benefits include:
- Increased footfall for hotels, restaurants, and local attractions.
- More inbound tourism as residents invite friends and family to visit during the holidays.
- Higher occupancy rates for accommodation providers.
- Improved regional connectivity between the Channel Islands, Ireland, and Belgium.
Dublin’s Festive Appeal
Dublin is one of Europe’s most celebrated Christmas destinations, offering visitors a combination of rich culture, festive markets, and vibrant nightlife. Streets glow with elaborate light displays, while seasonal music, traditional Irish hospitality, and cultural events create a warm holiday atmosphere.
The new direct flights from Jersey will make it easier than ever to enjoy Dublin’s winter festivities, from the bustling Grafton Street shopping scene to the iconic Christmas markets scattered across the city.
Bruges and the Magic of Winter Glow
The flights from Jersey and Guernsey to Bruges, via Ostend, will give travelers easy access to one of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets. Bruges’ Winter Glow festival transforms the medieval city into a winter wonderland, complete with sparkling light trails, ice skating rinks, and charming festive stalls along the canals.
By offering a direct link, Blue Islands is positioning the Channel Islands as a convenient departure point for travelers seeking a classic European holiday experience.
The Growing Trend of Short-Break Tourism
Short city breaks, particularly during festive seasons, have become increasingly popular among European travelers. Direct, no-fuss flights enable quick getaways that maximise time spent at the destination rather than in transit.
These routes tap into that demand, catering to travelers who want to combine convenience with memorable holiday experiences. The timing also aligns perfectly with the peak holiday travel period, ensuring strong passenger demand.
Strategic Positioning for the Channel Islands
This seasonal expansion strengthens the Channel Islands’ role as a niche travel hub for winter tourism. By offering unique access to both Irish and Belgian festive destinations, Jersey and Guernsey can market themselves as both gateways to Europe and attractive destinations in their own right.
Local businesses will benefit from inbound visitors who may combine their festive travel with a stay in the islands, further supporting the tourism ecosystem.
Outlook for Winter 2025/26
Blue Islands’ festive flights are expected to generate a ripple effect across multiple sectors, from travel agencies to tour operators, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With holiday travelers prioritising unique, authentic experiences, these routes open the door to new itineraries and cross-border tourism collaborations.
The airline’s move reflects a broader trend of regional carriers adapting their schedules to meet shifting seasonal travel demands. For passengers, it means more choice, better convenience, and the opportunity to make their festive season truly special.
Conclusion
By launching direct Christmas and New Year flights between Jersey, Dublin, Bruges, Guernsey, and Ostend, Blue Islands is delivering a win for both travelers and tourism economies. The new connections remove travel barriers, encourage short-break travel, and provide seamless access to two of Europe’s most magical festive destinations.
For the Channel Islands, this is not just about connecting airports — it’s about connecting cultures, boosting local economies, and positioning Jersey and Guernsey as integral players in the European holiday travel market.
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