Jersey Heritage Trust amphibious bus - 4 Aug 2019 (P1030580)

Sunday 4 August 2019 – Jersey Heritage Trust has two licensed 32 seat passenger carrying amphibious vehicles that run a shuttle service from the Esplanade out to Elizabeth Castle in St. Helier. The castle, built in the 1590s is surrounded by water at high tide, and was once the home of Sir Walter Raleigh when he was Governor of the island between 1600-1603. It also provided refuge for the future King Charles II during the English Civil War.

The two vehicles used on the shuttle, seen at the Esplansde slipway, are Hydra Terra models built by CAMI (Cool Amphibious Manufacturers International). They were originally operated by Pure Adventure of St Helier. ‘Charming Nancy’ (with red artwork) is registered J 61717 and dates from May 2007. ‘Charming Betty’ (with yellow artwork) is registered J 35514 was new in May 2008.

A view of the ‘bridge’ or ‘cab’ of ‘Charming Nancy’ which was about to operate the next crossing, dry in this case as it was low tide. In the background is ‘Charming Betty’ not in service today due to staff shortages.