We're told the process for awarding a new contract 'remains on schedule', as news of a third bidder has emerged.

A published timeline said there would be a shortlist of bidders by the end of July.

One told us this week they have not received any notification about the status of their bid yet.

Asked about the potential delay, Jersey's government issued a brief statement:

“The competitive procurement process remains on schedule and is being managed jointly by the governments of Guernsey and Jersey. As this is a live process, it is not possible to comment other than to say that we’re in contact with the parties involved.”

The States of Guernsey did not respond.

READ MORE: Jersey and Guernsey invite ferry companies to bid to operate future services.

Meanwhile, it has emerged that three ferry firms have tendered for the 15 year contract to operate future freight and passenger services.

Condor Ferries and Danish shipping company DFDS had stated their intentions publicly.  Irish Ferries is reported to have made a bid too.

Until a decision, which is expected by the end of next month, islanders can't make any ferry travel plans for after next March, which is when Condor's current service agreement expires.

READ MORE: Brittany Ferries set to become majority owner of Condor