Stena Line‘s first new hybrid ferry, destined for service in the Irish Sea, has successfully completed its sea trials in China.
The “Stena Futura” is methanol-capable and is scheduled to enter service in late summer.
The purpose of the sea trials is to test the vessel’s performance under real operating conditions and ensure that all systems are fully functional and meet the agreed specifications. The tests cover areas such as engine performance and endurance, fuel consumption, navigation and radio equipment, emergency systems, speed tests, maneuverability, engine and thruster tests, as well as safety tests.
Stena increases capacity by 40%
Once in operational, the NewMax vessels Stena Futura and Stena Connecta will increase freight capacity on the Belfast-Heysham route by 40% meeting rising demand for transport services between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, Stena Line announced. To accommodate the new vessels, Peel Ports Group is investing nearly €12 million in expanding the port of Heysham.
Both hybrid ferries are designed to operate on methanol fuel and play a key role in Stena Line’s sustainability efforts. The vessels are also equipped with technologies that enable them to use battery propulsion and shore power when available.
“It is with great pleasure that we announce that the ‘Stena Futura’ has successfully completed its trial voyage,” said CEO Niclas Mårtensson. “The Irish Sea continues to be a booming market for Stena Line and our customers will welcome the fact that these vessels will significantly increase freight capacity on the popular Belfast-Heysham route. These ships will bring us closer to our goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 30 percent by 2030 and strengthen Stena Line’s position as a leader in sustainable shipping.”
