Galleon Travel 2009 has been purchased by Vectare. The deal includes the Essex business’s eponymous coach operation and its Central Connect bus arm, and it is for an undisclosed sum. The deal will complement Vectare’s existing operations in Essex and Hertfordshire.

Vectare says that it intends “for things to be business as usual at Galleon Travel” following the purchase. It notes that the Roydon, Essex-based operator is already a growing business with new local bus service contracts having been secured prior to Vectare’s involvement.

In a statement, Vectare Commercial and Operations Director Peter Nathanail says: “We regard this transaction as an exciting opportunity to substantially expand our presence in Hertfordshire, and build upon Galleon Travel’s excellent working relationship with Hertfordshire County Council (HCC), which is well known for its proactive approach to partnership with local bus operators.

“We hope to work closely with HCC to further develop and enhance the network of bus services that the combined businesses now operate in Hertfordshire. Many of these are financially supported by HCC, and we will work hard to increase passenger numbers through enhanced marketing and investment in new vehicles.”

Mr Nathanail has confirmed that the Galleon Travel coach operation – which runs vehicles in the business’s own livery along with the schemes of holiday companies, including a pair of Leger Luxuria Scania Irizar coaches – will also continue as normal.

Galleon Travel was established as an East London operator in the 1950s and was previously owned by the Bowden family.

Mr Nathanail notes that dealing with the former owners “has been a pleasure” for Vectare. A significant number of staff members will transfer to the new owners, as will over 40 vehicles.

Vectare was founded by Mr Nathanail and fellow Director Dominic Kalantary in 2016.