By
Alex Smith |
Stena Line is to expand its operations across the Baltic Sea region, replacing the current vessels on the route between Nynäshamn, Sweden, and Ventspils, Latvia, with two lengthened ro-pax ferries, Stena Lagan and Stena Mersey.
Stena Line acquired the ferry route in 2012 and has increased operations to two vessels and 24 departures per week. The two new vessels will increase freight capacity and feature an updated interior design.
“We have seen an increase in demand from our customers across the wider Baltic Sea region,” said Niclas Mårtensson, CEO of Stena Line. “We are now strengthening our position and customer offer further with new modern vessels and more capacity.”
Stena Mersey and Stena Lagan have been operating on Stena Line’s Irish Sea route since their delivery in 2005. The two vessels will be modified and lengthened before redeploying on the Nynäshamn-Ventspils route from 2021, with work to be carried out by Stena RoRo at Sedef Shipyard in Istanbul, Turkey.
The two vessels will be lengthened with a 36-metre-long mid-section, giving the ships a total length of 222 metres. They will have capacity for 970 passengers in 200 cabins, as well as 2,875 freight lane metres and an additional car deck. The vessels will also be modified with drive-through capabilities on two levels and fitted with hybrid scrubbers.
The interiors will be updated in a Scandinavian-style design, with new cabin categories, a shop, a sundeck and a lounge area with reclining chairs. A separate dining option for freight drivers will also be added.
Stena Lagan is currently undergoing work at the Sedef Shipyard, and is scheduled to begin operating on the route at the beginning of 2021. Stena Mersey is still operating in the Irish Sea ahead of her replacement by Stena Embla in January 2021, after which she will undergo her lengthening and return on the new route later in the year.
“We continue to build on our successful ro-pax concept, combining freight and passengers,” said Johan Edelman, trade director of Baltic Sea North at Stena Line. “These two new vessels will be a fantastic addition to the fleet and for our customers. I am looking forward to welcoming them onboard.”