Finnlines and Port of Långnäs Open New Passenger Terminal to Support Growing Demand

By 2026 Newsletter week 20

Finnlines and the Port of Långnäs have opened a modern new passenger terminal in Åland, enhancing the travel experience on one of the Baltic Sea’s fastest-growing ferry routes.

The €3 million investment supports rising passenger demand on the Naantali–Långnäs–Kapellskär service operated by the Superstar-class vessels FINNSIRIUS and FINNCANOPUS.

Designed for Growth and Passenger Comfort

Located directly next to the berth, the new terminal shortens walking distances and speeds up boarding and disembarkation.

Key features include:

  • Approximately 500 m² of floor space
  • Modern waiting areas
  • Direct access to the vessels
  • Improved accessibility and barrier-free movement

Passenger numbers on the route have increased significantly since FINNSIRIUS and FINNCANOPUS entered service, confirming the popularity of Finnlines’ premium RoPax offering.

Strengthening Åland’s Tourism Potential

Finnlines sees substantial growth opportunities in Åland and aims to work closely with local stakeholders to improve regional accessibility and tourism appeal.

According to CEO Thomas Doepel, the company wants to be a strong partner for Åland’s tourism and hospitality sectors while continuing to provide reliable transport links.

Strategic Investment in Baltic Connectivity

The terminal forms part of the Port of Långnäs’ long-term development programme. The project strengthens Åland’s role as an important transport hub between Finland and Sweden.

By combining modern infrastructure with high-quality vessels, Finnlines continues to invest in both customer experience and regional connectivity across the Baltic Sea.

Source: Finnlines

Baleària Plans Record Summer Operation with 37 Daily Services Between Spain and North Africa

By 2026 Newsletter week 20

Baleària is preparing its largest-ever Strait Crossing Operation, with up to 37 daily sailings between Spain and Morocco, Algeria, Ceuta and Melilla.

Running from 15 June to 15 September, the operation will deploy 12 vessels across eight routes to meet peak summer demand as thousands of passengers travel to North Africa to reunite with their families.

Stronger Network to Morocco

Morocco remains Baleària’s largest market in the region, after carrying nearly one million passengers during last year’s campaign.

Key enhancements include:

  • Up to 12 daily departures on the Tarifa–Tangier City service.
  • Increased capacity through deployment of a larger fast ferry.
  • Nine daily sailings on the Algeciras–Tangier Med route.
  • An average of three daily departures on Almería–Nador.

Continued Commitment to Algeria

Baleària will again offer five weekly services to Algeria:

  • Three weekly sailings from Valencia to Mostaganem.
  • One weekly service from Barcelona to Algiers.
  • One weekly service from Barcelona to Oran.

The company is marking ten years of operations in the Algerian market.

Reliable Links to Ceuta and Melilla

Baleària will operate:

  • Up to 11 daily connections with Ceuta.
  • One to two daily services to Melilla.

Tailored Onboard Services

To improve the travel experience, Baleària will offer:

  • Arabic- and French-speaking passenger assistance.
  • Halal menus.
  • Dedicated prayer rooms.

General Manager Georges Bassoul said North Africa has become the group’s fastest-growing business area in recent years.

With expanded capacity, tailored services and a record schedule, Baleària is strengthening its role as a key operator connecting Spain with North Africa during the busy summer season.

P&O Ferries Appoints Dominic Tucker to Strengthen B2B and Travel Trade Partnerships

By 2026 Newsletter week 20

P&O Ferries has appointed Dominic Tucker as Head of B2B Sales, Distribution & Partnerships within its passenger business.

Tucker brings more than 20 years of experience in the travel and aviation sectors, with expertise in commercial strategy, distribution and partner development.

He joins P&O Ferries from easyJet, where he led indirect distribution strategy and worked with global partners including GDS providers and online travel agencies. Previous senior roles at Norwegian Air Shuttle and British Airways further strengthened his experience in B2B sales and commercial partnerships.

In his new position, Tucker will lead P&O Ferries’ passenger groups and B2B business, focusing on:

  • Strengthening relationships with key customers and travel trade partners.
  • Enhancing distribution capabilities.
  • Supporting continued growth in passenger operations.

The appointment underlines P&O Ferries’ commitment to expanding its commercial reach and deepening partnerships across the travel industry.