Ro-ro operator Stena Line’s NewMax fleet investment programme has reached another milestone with the launch of ‘Stena Connecta’ at the China Merchants Jinling Shipyard, Weihai, China.
Stena Connecta is one of two new ships due to serve the Belfast – Heysham route, a key trade corridor across the Irish Sea. Now that Stena Connecta has entered the water, the shipyard will continue with the installation of the interior. Sister ship, Stena Futura, is currently being fitted out, and is due to enter service in Autumn 2025. Stena Connecta will follow in early 2026.
Once operational, Stena Connecta and Stena Futura will offer a 40% increase in freight capacity in response to an increase in customer demand for services between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
The two hybrid vessels are equipped to operate on methanol fuel, and will play a key role in Stena Line’s sustainability journey. They will feature built in technologies that will be able to utilise both battery propulsion and shore power, when available. Stena Line is working closely with methanol suppliers, ensuring future volumes of e-methanol and fulfilling the goal of cutting 30% of its CO2 emissions by 2030.
Stena Connecta is planned to be fitted with rotor sails, providing auxiliary propulsion to the vessel, further reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Niclas Mårtensson, CEO Stena Line said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the launch of Stena Connecta, a significant step forward in our NewMax fleet investment programme. The business has seen growth in demand on the Belfast – Heysham route over recent years and we are certain that the extra capacity will be welcomed by the market. These new hybrid vessels, equipped with future-proofed technologies, are a testament to our commitment to sustainability and are key in advancing our strategic ambition to shift to renewable fuels. We are dedicated to being a leader in sustainable shipping and ensuring a bright future for our industry.”
Image: Launch of ‘Stena Connecta’ (source: Stena Line)
