Brittany Ferries’ LNG-electric hybrid vessel ‘Saint-Malo’ has taken to the water, undertaking sea trials this week in the far east, ahead of transit to Europe in November.
The vessel will be based at Portsmouth, UK, and will operate the service between Portsmouth and the port Saint-Malo. The ferry, to the Stena Ro-ro E-Flexer design, is believed to be the cleanest on the English Channel, running on LNG at sea and on electric power when manoeuvring or alongside in port, thanks to shore power.
Christophe Mathieu CEO Brittany Ferries said: “Saint-Malo will be the fourth new vessel to join the fleet, part of the biggest fleet renewal project in our company’s 52-year history. This vessel and sister-ship Guillaume de Normandie are significant steps on our journey to a more sustainable future.”
Preparatory work for shore power at Portsmouth International Port is underway, ready for the arrival of shore-power ready ships on two berths. The work is part of the UK government Zero Emissions Vessels and Infrastructure competition (ZEVI).
Saint-Malo will transit to Europe in autumn 2024. Following ramp trials, staff training and fine tuning, the ship is due to enter service in February 2025.
Image: ‘Saint-Malo’ begins sea trials (source: Brittany Ferries)
