Chinese-built vessels earmarked for Belfast

Last year Stena announced a new-build contract of four RoPax ferry vessels with a planned delivery schedule during 2019 and 2020.

The vessels are being built at the AVIC Shipyard in China and Stena Line have now revealed that the plan is to locate the vessels on the Irish Sea.

“The routes to and from Belfast are strategically very important to Stena Line and during the last number of years we have made significant investments in ports and vessels to improve and develop our capacity offering a frequent high quality service for our customers to and from Belfast, said Stena Line’s CEO Niclas Mårtensson.

“We intend to continue our ambitious development plan for our business in the region and the new vessels are a part of this strategic plan.”

Joe O’Neill, commercial director, Belfast Harbour commented: “We are delighted that Stena Line is planning for Belfast as the location for its next generation of RoPax vessels in what is a significant investment in and enhancement of Northern Ireland’s premier freight and tourism gateway.”

“We look forward to welcoming the new vessels and the associated benefits they will bring to Belfast Harbour and the economy of Northern Ireland.”