By
Rebecca Gibson |
Norwegian ferry operator Fjord Line has postponed the inaugural sailing of its new vessel Stavangerfjord, due to delays with the installation and testing of engines and other equipment.
“We have ordered the most technically advanced equipment available, and must accept that the shipyard needs more time to install and fully test it,” said CEO Ingvald Fardal.
The vessel was originally scheduled to begin its regular service on the route between Bergen, Stavanger and Hirtshals, as well as the route between Hirtshals and Langesund, on 29 May. It will now launch on 21 June.
Passengers who were booked to travel on the ship from Bergen, Stavanger or Hirtshals between 29 May and 20 June will be offered a place on Bergensfjord, while those departing from Langesund can use HSC Fjord Cat, which begins its summer service on 16 May between Kristiansand and Hirtshals.
Stavangerfjord is the first of two ferries to be built for Fjord Line by Bergen Group Fosen. The second ship, Bergensfjord, is currently under construction and will replace the current Bergensfjord when it enters service.
With both new cruise ferries in full operation, Fjord Line will have regular daily departures from all four ports on the two lines including Bergen - Stavanger – Hirtshals, and Hirtshals - Langesund.