Saint Helier Harbour is the main harbour on the channel island of Jersey. It is on the south coast of the island, occupying most of the coast of the main town of St Helier . It is operated by Ports of Jersey, a company wholly owned by the Government of Jersey.
A Short History Of The Development Of St Helier Harbour
Early beginnings
Since its first settlement, St. Helier, the capital of Jersey, has had a strong marine history. Soon after the Normans occupied the island in the tenth century, the strategic significance of St. Helier’s natural harbour was acknowledged. However, major port developments did not start until the 17th century.
The French & English Harbours
The construction of French and English Harbours in 1700 marked a significant development in marine infrastructure. Both of these harbors, featured on early maps and illustrations, are some of the oldest constructions solely for maritime purposes on the island. For more than one hundred years, they acted as the primary harbor for the larger ships of Jersey, enabling trade and maritime business between Jersey and the mainland.
Enlargement in the 18th Century
As maritime commerce expanded, the constraints of the current harbors were revealed. Construction of the North Pier began in 1790 to support the growing maritime activity. This advancement was essential for increasing the port’s capabilities and safeguarding ships from turbulent waters. It took more than 30 years to finish building the North Pier, which was completed in 1821.
19th and Early 20th Century Developments
During the 19th century, St. Helier Harbour continued to be enhanced with the building of more piers, quays, and the integration of modern shipping amenities. The port became a crucial center for commerce, sightseeing, and ferry services, linking Jersey with other harbors in the Channel Islands and continental Europe.
The Second World War
Throughout World War II, Jersey was taken over by German troops, resulting in major alterations to the harbor’s activities and structures. Post-war reconstruction aimed at renovating and updating the docks to bolster the expanding post-war economy.
Modern Era
During the second half of the 20th century and continuing into the 21st century, St. Helier Harbour has experienced ongoing modernization. The upgrades involve creating new ferry terminals, upgrading cruise ship docking facilities, and improving recreational areas for leisure activities. Presently, St. Helier Harbour is an important connection for both trade seafaring and tourist activities, playing a crucial role in Jersey’s economic infrastructure.
Etymology
Saint Helier Harbour is dedicated to Helier, a 6th-century hermit from Belgium known for his ascetic practices. His martyrdom is commonly believed to have taken place in the year AD 555. The annual municipal and ecumenical pilgrimage to the Hermitage falls on 16 July, which is his feast day. If you are interested, you can find more information here regarding the expansion of St Helier.
The Elizabeth Harbour
The Elizabeth Harbour includes a ferry terminal, two roll-on/roll-off ferry berths, and a trailer park for shipping containers, all managed by Elizabeth Harbour. High-speed vessels use them to travel to Poole, Guernsey, and Saint-Malo, while traditional ferries are used to reach Saint-Malo, Guernsey, and Portsmouth, and foot passenger ferries provide service to Granville, Barneville-Carteret, and Sark.
Main harbour
The main port offers deep water docks for commercial ships next to Victoria Quay and New North Quay. Victoria Quay is home to fish wholesalers like Fresh Fish Company and Aquamar Fisheries. Albert Pier has transformed from a ferry terminal into new docks for big boats and yachts. Check out the latest news on this subject and don’t forget to browse through ED.EM.04 – Victoria and Albert: on the Piers, a photo-zine created by the SJ Photo-archive.
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