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sandra

Nov 28
1

IMAGE CARDS

By | 2025 Newsletter week 48 | No Comments

Damen Advances BC Ferries Island Class Programme with Launch of Ninth Vessel

Damen has launched ISLAND CLASS 9 at its Galati yard, marking the latest milestone in the BC Ferries newbuild programme. The vessel is part of a four-ship order based on the Damen 8117 (E3) electric-ready design, with ISLAND CLASS 10 also progressing following its block assembly in October. Upon delivery, the hybrids will be prepared for future full-electric operation and will serve the Gabriola Island and Quadra Island routes.

EUROCHAMPION JET 2 (Ex SKANE JET) Arrived in Greece

On 23 November 2025, the high-speed vessel EUROCHAMPION JET 2 (ex SKANE JET) arrived at the Port of Piraeus. SEAJETS purchased her from FRS last October, and she is expected to join the Hellenic Coastal Shipping network.

EUROCHAMPION JET 2 is one of the world’s fastest car-carrying passenger vessels and holds the eastbound record for the fastest transatlantic crossing. Built by Incat (Australia) in 1998, she can carry 900 passengers and 240 cars, operating at 41 knots (maximum 48 knots).

Photo: Anastasios Anastasiou

GOLDEN CARRIER Chartered to GNV

On 22 November 2025, GOLDEN CARRIER (ex WOLIN), operated by A-Ships Management, departed Perama for Italy. The RoPax vessel has been chartered to GNV for a short period, as the Italian operator aims to strengthen its presence on the highly demanded Naples–Palermo passenger and freight route with a third ship.

Purchased last March from Polish operator Unity Line and built in Norway in 1986, GOLDEN CARRIER has capacity for 370 passengers and 1,770 lane metres, with a service speed of 18 knots.

Photo: Kostas Papadopoulos

VENIZELOS Returns to Greece

On 26 November 2025, the large ferry EL. VENIZELOS returned to Greece, heading to Elefsis Shipyards (ONEX). The vessel had been on a bareboat charter to Algerie Ferries since May 2025, operating on the Alicante–Oran route.

According to available information, the vessel’s arrival in Elefsina is related to technical and operational requirements. It remains unclear whether she will be deployed again on a Greek domestic line or chartered abroad. The ferry will undergo inspections, maintenance, and possible upgrades in preparation for her next assignment.

Photo: Voyager – Christos Chatzaras

Contract Signed for New Fully Electric Ferry

Torghatten Nord has signed a contract for a new NSD 60CFE Gen 2 fully electric ferry, designed by Norwegian Ship Design. The vessel will be built at Özata Shipyard in Istanbul, where the steel-cutting ceremony also took place this week. It is the yard’s third Torghatten ferry using NSD design.

Corsica Ferries Acquires STENA VISION

Corsica Sardinia Ferries has indeed purchased the RoPax STENA VISION from Stena Line and will be renamed MEGA SERENA. The ferry was built in 1987

Stena Line Names STENA FUTURA at Belfast Harbour

Over 200 guests attended the official naming ceremony of Stena Line’s newest vessel, STENA FUTURA, at Belfast Harbour. The event marked a major step in the company’s 30-year partnership with the port and in its wider push towards sustainable shipping.

The 147-metre STENA FUTURA is the first of two next-generation “NewMax” freight vessels designed for the Belfast–Heysham route. The ship is methanol-ready and fitted with hybrid propulsion, battery capability and shore-power connections. Stena Line expects these technologies to support its target of a 30% CO₂ reduction by 2030.

The vessel was named by its Godmother, Dr Madeleine Olsson Ericksson, a member of the Olsson family who own Stena Line. Among the guests were the Deputy Lieutenant of the Borough of Belfast, Dr Philip McGarry, the First Minister Michelle O’Neill, the Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, and Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners.

The ceremony also celebrated 30 years of Stena Line operations in Belfast, marking three decades since the company moved its services to the city in 1995.

Photo Scott Mackey

STENA SAGA as SAGA X

Bridgemans Floatel, a division of Bridgemans Services Group announced the successful completion and Canadian arrival of SAGA X, the company’s second Canadian floatel. The ferry is the former STENA SAGA.

Over the past four months alongside, every cabin, common area, and system on board has been rebuilt and upgraded.

The vessel now features shore power connectivity, industrial heat pumps eliminating diesel use while alongside, a state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant, advanced water-making and filtration systems, and a comprehensive waste management plan to reduce waste and maximize recycling.

Source: Bridgemans

Nov 21
3

Mixed Results for Gotlandsbolaget After Go Nordic Acquisition

By | 2025 Newsletter week 47 | No Comments

Gotlandsbolaget’s results for January–September 2025 show higher revenues and stable passenger numbers across the group. The acquisition of Go Nordic Cruiseline has more than doubled the number of employees and significantly increased turnover. However, establishment costs and lower-than-expected revenues continue to weigh on the cruise line’s result.

 Quarter: July–September 2025

  • Revenues: SEK 1,415.6m (1,002.7)
  • Costs: SEK –1,079.1m (–695.1)
  • Adjusted operating profit: SEK 352.7m (318.2)
  • Profit after tax: SEK 311.1m (230.4)

The quarter was strengthened by Go Nordic Cruiseline’s first high season under Gotlandsbolaget. Passenger numbers reached 230,000, in line with 2024. Onboard revenues did not meet expectations and establishment costs remain high.

Gotland Alandia Cruises also contributed positively. 161,000 guests travelled on BIRKA GOTLAND, up 3% on the previous year.

Gotland traffic saw a 1% decline during the quarter, although June and August exceeded 2024 levels. Travel by Gotland residents increased by 6% for January–September.

 Period: January–September 2025

  • Revenues: SEK 2,985.3m (1,991.7)
  • Costs: SEK –2,815.5m (–1,677.2)
  • Adjusted operating profit: SEK 157.6m (278.8)
  • Profit after tax: SEK 32.3m (322.7)

Dockings and upgrades of NORDIC PEARL and NORDIC CROWN reduced availability in Q1. Exchange-rate effects also had a significant negative impact compared to 2024.

 CEO’s Comment

CEO Björn Nilsson highlighted revenue growth and the contribution from Go Nordic Cruiseline, but noted that 2025 remains an establishment year with high costs. He sees strong potential for both Go Nordic and BIRKA GOTLAND as their market positions strengthen.

Nilsson also emphasised progress in emissions reductions. By exceeding FuelEU Maritime requirements and selling surplus allowances, Gotlandsbolaget can finance increased use of renewable fuels. The order for GOTLAND HORIZON X supports this transition.

The CEO underlined the group’s Nordic footprint and continued commitment to Gotland’s development, including the investment in Brommaflyg and the partnership with Strawberry (hotels).

Nov 21
3

Finnlines Back on Track With Strong Passenger Growth

By | 2025 Newsletter week 47 | No Comments

Highlights January–September 2025

  • Revenue: EUR 547.1m (2024: 547.2m)
  • EBIT: EUR 74.5m (72.3m)
  • Result for the period: EUR 68.4m (52.1m)
  • Interest-bearing debt reduced to EUR 344m (–EUR 43m)
  • EBITDA: EUR 141.6m, up 1%
  • Passenger revenue: EUR 89.5m, +EUR 7.2m year-on-year

Thomas Doepel, President and CEO:

“The first nine months re-confirm that we are back on track again. Our ro-ro fleet rationalisation and investments in passenger traffic formed the basis of this satisfactory result.”

Cargo volumes totalled 592,000 units, 51,000 cars, and 871,000 tonnes of non-unitised freight, while 831,000 passengers and drivers travelled with Finnlines.

The company continues its long-term commitment to green shipping. In April, Finnlines announced a new investment programme for three methanol-powered RoPax vessels, due to enter service between Finland and Germany in 2028–2029.

Further measures include low-carbon transport solutions, ship electrification, biofuels, and network optimisation.

Finnlines remains focused on strengthening routes between Sweden–Poland, Finland–Poland, and Poland–Belgium/France/UK/Spain, linking to the global Grimaldi Group network.

Financial review click on picture below

Nov 21
3

Godby Shipping Confirms Purchase of RoRo Vessel TRANSPORTER

By | 2025 Newsletter week 47 | No Comments

Godby Shipping has completed the purchase of the RoRo vessel TRANSPORTER from Eckerö Shipping in Mariehamn. The transaction was finalised on 19 November, and the vessel is now officially part of the Godby fleet.

TRANSPORTER is the sister ship of AURORA, making her a strong strategic fit for the company.

The vessel is currently on time charter to DFDS, operating on the Fredrikstad–Halden (Norway), Zeebrugge (Belgium) and Immingham (UK) liner route. She will remain on charter until the end of December 2026, with further extension options.

Godby Shipping confirmed that TRANSPORTER will retain her existing name.

Nov 21
3

MacGregor to Supply Access Solutions for Grimaldi’s Nine New RoPax Vessels

By | 2025 Newsletter week 47 | No Comments

MacGregor has been selected by the Grimaldi Group to supply cargo access solutions for nine new RoPax vessels to be built at China Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyard. The order was booked in MacGregor’s third quarter 2025.

The contract covers cargo access equipment for:

  • Three vessels for Finnlines
  • Four for Grimaldi Euromed
  • Two for Minoan Lines

Two Vessel Designs

  • Finnlines (3 ships): 5,400 lane metres and capacity for 1,000 passengers. Designed for Baltic Sea operations.
  • Grimaldi Euromed / Minoan Lines (6 ships): 3,300 lane metres and 2,500 passengers. Intended for Mediterranean and Adriatic services.
Nov 21
3

Vessels In & Out for Corsica Ferries’ Fleet

By | 2025 Newsletter week 47 | No Comments

Market rumours suggest changes in the Corsica Ferries fleet.

MEGA EXPRESS FIVE is reportedly sold to Dubai-based Tarco Marine, the buyer of CORSICA MARINA SECONDA and CORSICA VICTORIA.

  • Owner Pierre Mattei declined to comment on the transaction.
  • Built in 1993 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the ship offers 1,400 lane metres, 276 cabins, capacity for 1,800 passengers and a 26-knot service speed.

STENA VISION is expected to join the fleet.

  • The vessel, built in 1987 and refitted in 1999 and 2010, recently arrived in the Mediterranean and is now off Gibraltar.
  • It is 175 metres long, 30 metres wide, 38,700 GT, and carries 1,700 passengers and 570 cars at 20 knots.
  • The ship previously served the Rosslare–Cherbourg route.
Nov 21
3

Øresundslinjen Moves Toward Fully Green Corridor With HAMLET Conversion

By | 2025 Newsletter week 47 | No Comments

Øresundslinjen has taken another major step towards a fully green maritime corridor between Denmark and Sweden. The ferry HAMLET has entered Oresund Drydocks in Landskrona for a full conversion from diesel engines to battery power.

When HAMLET returns to service in mid-December 2025, she will operate as a fully electric ferry powered by renewable energy. This marks the third vessel on the Helsingør–Helsingborg route to undergo electrification.

The ferries AURORA and TYCHO BRAHE have operated on battery power since 2018. TYCHO BRAHE also installed the world’s largest maritime battery pack in 2021, at 6,400 kWh. Øresundslinjen was the first operator globally to run electric RoPax ferries on a high-frequency service.

HAMLET’s conversion includes:

  • 2,800 kWh of batteries (Echandia) in four containers on Deck 6
  • ABB charging modules on both sides of the Øresund
  • Structural reinforcement completed during two earlier dockings

CO₂ Emissions Sharply Reduced

The route previously emitted 37,800 tonnes of CO₂ annually. After the first two conversions, emissions fell to 10,200 tonnes in 2024. With HAMLET electrified, emissions will drop to 2,500 tonnes after full implementation. The three conversions together will remove 35,300 tonnes of CO₂ per year.

HAMLET will return to service on 15 December 2025.

Nov 21
3

Vestlandske Converts Two Ferries to Zero-Emission Operation on the Geirangerfjord

By | 2025 Newsletter week 47 | No Comments

Vestlandske is converting two ferries to zero-emission operation on the Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites. The project supports national goals for emission-free domestic shipping.

The electrification will cut emissions by around 2,600 tonnes of CO₂ annually. It will also allow further development of tourism services on the fjord without increasing pressure on the natural environment.

Large Battery Capacity for Demanding Operations

Both vessels will receive battery packs totalling 17 MWh, giving sufficient capacity for operations in an area with limited shore power. With support from Enova, the aim is for JOTUNHEIM and HJØRUNGAVÅG to begin zero-emission operations at the start of the 2026 season.

Tourism Partnership

Vestlandske has also entered a long-term collaboration with Norway’s Best, one of the country’s largest tourism operators, which will handle sales and marketing.

A Collaborative Project

CEO Øystein Meek said the initiative reflects extensive planning and cooperation across technology, maritime expertise and tourism.
“The goal is to deliver a tourism product that safeguards the environment, guests and the area’s long-term interests,” he said.
“Zero-emission operation and greater capacity provide more efficient operation and a better overall experience on board. This is important for tourism, but also for the area as a whole.”

Nov 21
3

Ferry Solution Saves New Zealand $2.3 Billion (≈ €1.12 billion)

By | 2025 Newsletter week 47 | No Comments

The New Zealand Government says taxpayers will save billions under a revised plan for two new Interislander ferries and streamlined infrastructure in Picton and Wellington.

Rail Minister Winston Peters confirmed the deal on Monday.

  • Two new road-rail ferries will enter Cook Strait service in 2029.
  • A $596 million (≈ €290 million) fixed-price contract has been signed between Ferry Holdings and Guangzhou Shipyard International.
  • The total programme cost remains below $2 billion (≈ €974 million).
  • Taxpayer funding will stay under $1.7 billion (≈ €828 million) allocated earlier this year.
  • Peters says this represents a $2.3 billion (≈ €1.12 billion) saving, after removing costly consultancy-driven upgrades that pushed estimates towards $4 billion (≈ €1.95 billion).
  • Infrastructure spending will be recovered through port fees from Interislander revenue.
  • Interislander must build reserves to fund replacement vessels over the next 30 years.
  • Ferry Holdings will lead infrastructure delivery, supported by CentrePort, Port Marlborough, and KiwiRail.
  • Disruption to Interislander and Bluebridge operations will be minimised.

Peters will travel to Guangzhou next week with Ferry Holdings leadership to mark the agreement and strengthen economic ties with China.

Nov 21
3

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Unveils Three-Vessel Schedule With New Focus on Ireland

By | 2025 Newsletter week 47 | No Comments

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company will launch its new three-vessel timetable for 2026/27. It goes on sale on 21 November 2025 and marks the first regular three-ship schedule outside TT for over 15 years. The plan strengthens all core routes and introduces a major expansion of services to Ireland.

Key points:

  • BEN-MY-CHREE becomes the dedicated Ireland vessel.
    Five sailings a week to Dublin and Larne in peak season.
    Three winter sailings a week to Larne.
    Supports both passenger travel and new freight opportunities.
  • MANANNAN expands on Liverpool.
    More daytime summer sailings.
    Maintains two daily services into early September.
    Potential September increases if demand remains strong.
  • MANXMAN focuses on Heysham.
    Exclusively on the route in peak season.
    Operates weekend Liverpool sailings from November to March.
    BEN-MY-CHREE supports Heysham freight when required.
  • Customer initiatives extended.
    10% off Flexi Fares and Kids Go Free continue after strong uptake in 2025.
  • Fleet investment.
    Major interior refit planned for BEN-MY-CHREE to upgrade public areas for the Ireland routes.

The schedule runs until late May 2027 and goes live on 21 November at 09:30.

Managing Director Brian Thomson says the Company is investing to support growth. He warns the new Irish links must be used to remain viable, adding that the two-year commitment aims to build sustainable demand.