Stena Futura Joins Belfast–Heysham Route

By | 2025 Newsletter week 38 | No Comments

STENA FUTURA, the first of two “NewMax” RoRo vessels, has arrived in Belfast from China. The 147-metre ship features a multi-hybrid solution enabling operation on battery, biofuel and methanol. It is also rotorsail-ready and equipped to use both battery propulsion and shore power when available. STENA FUTURA will join the Belfast–Heysham route on 22 September, operating 12 sailings per week and adding 2,800 lane metres of much-needed freight capacity. The service connects local hauliers directly into the North of England road freight network.

Photo: Scott Mackey

Stena Futura Completes Sea Trials Ahead of Irish Sea Debut

By | 2025 Newsletter week 26 | No Comments
  • STENA FUTURA, the first of Stena Line’s new hybrid ferries, has completed successful sea trials.
  • The vessel is on track to enter service on the Belfast–Heysham route in late summer.
  • Trials tested key systems including engine performance, manoeuvrability, and safety equipment.
  • STENA FUTURA and sister ship STENA CONNECTA will boost freight capacity on the route by 40%.
  • Both ships feature hybrid technology, enabling battery propulsion and shore power use to support Stena Line’s sustainability goals.