On January 20, 2025, the ARI (formerly GNV ARIES) left the Perama repair zone under tow after being sold for scrap in Aliaga, Turkey. The vessel, which arrived in Greece on October 26, 2024, had been laid up at Perama for preparatory works.
The former North Sea Ferries vessel served in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean for an impressive 38 years.
Photo: Kostas Papadopoulos
At Fitur, Baleària introduced the first green corridor between Spain and Morocco, operated by two 100% electric, zero-emission fast ferries. These sister ships will connect Tarifa and Tangier, offering a fully electric, zero-emission journey. Baleària’s president, Adolfo Utor, described the project as “pioneering and technologically advanced,” emphasising its commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Last December, Baleària won a 15-year contract from the Port Authority of Algeciras Bay (APBA) to manage the Tarifa-Tangier Ville route. The award prioritised technical and environmental criteria, making it the first intercontinental green line. Utor highlighted the initiative as a model of sustainable, modern mobility aligned with Baleària’s values.
The launch event drew about 300 attendees, including key figures like José Antonio Santano, Spain’s Secretary of State for Transport and Sustainable Mobility; Arturo Bernal, Andalusian Minister of Tourism and Foreign Affairs; Gerardo Landaluce, APBA President; and Moroccan Ambassador to Spain, Karima Benyaich.
