July is set to become the busiest month on record for small boat crossings as criminal gangs offer "summer deals" to migrants attempting to reach Britain.
In the first 12 days of this month, 2,378 asylum seekers have arrived on UK shores.
July will see approximately 6,143 arrivals if current rates continue, surpassing all previous records, according to the Telegraph's analysis.
This represents a dramatic surge compared to 2023, when 1,711 people arrived during the same 12-day period.
Overall this year, 22,360 migrants have successfully crossed the Channel in inflatable dinghies, marking a 57 per cent increase from the 14,164 who made the journey during the same period in 2024.
The majority of arrivals originate from the Middle East, Vietnam and East Africa.
Criminal networks are becoming "increasingly professionalised" and targeting specific nationalities with substantial discounts.
Eritreans and Albanians are receiving personalised advertisements on social media platforms, with smugglers offering Channel crossings for as little as £2,000.
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July is set to become the busiest month on record for small boat crossings as criminal gangs offer "summer deals" to migrants attempting to reach Britain
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Dr Peter Walsh, a senior researcher at The Migration Observatory, explained the pricing dynamics: "The numbers go up and down, and special rates can be offered for individuals who say, 'Well, I have experience directing boats'. Special offers can be given to certain nationalities."
He noted that anecdotal evidence suggested Eritreans had been offered lower rates that made crossings more affordable.
Dr Walsh added: "About all we can say is the typical cost in the thousands of euros rather than hundreds and the prices are dynamic."
Smugglers have adapted their methods to evade French authorities by using "taxi boats" - pre-inflated dinghies launched from waterways and canals leading to the sea.
Smugglers have adapted their methods to evade French authorities by using 'taxi boats'
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These vessels can be quickly loaded with migrants before police can respond.
The boats then crawl along the coastline, collecting passengers who wait in the water beyond police reach.
Dr Walsh highlighted the challenge facing law enforcement.
He said: "They are highly adaptable, you know in a certain sense law enforcement is always a step behind and remember, law enforcement has to follow the rules of the law and that is a substantial disadvantage that they are at."
Emmanuel Macron and Sir Keir Starmer announced a 'one in, one out' migrant deal between the UK and FrancePAIn a bid to reduce the crossings, Keir Starmer has agreed to pilot a "one in one out" landmark migrant return deal with France.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Emmanuel Macron, the Prime Minister said: "There is no silver bullet here but with a united effort, new tactics and a new level of intent we can finally turn the tables."
The details of each migrant selected for removal will be shared with France before they are returned on deportation flights, giving French authorities the chance to reject individuals who have a criminal record, are deemed a security risk or who they have previously rejected for asylum.