Stena’s hybrid ferry powers into service
Stena Futura, the first methanol-ready NewMax hybrid ship for Stena Line, has successfully completed sea trials in China, marking a major vessel build milestone for the operator.
The completion of the sea trials marks a crucial step in the ferry build process, ensuring that the vessel meets all operational, safety and environmental specifications.
“It is with great excitement that we announce that Stena Futura has successfully completed its sea trials,” said Niclas Mårtensson, CEO of Stena Line.
“These vessels represent a crucial step in our broader sustainability journey. By integrating battery propulsion and shore power capabilities, we are making significant strides towards our goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030, reinforcing Stena Line’s position as a leader in sustainable shipping.”
Alt fuel ready
The newbuild hybrid vessels, Stena Futura and her sister ship Stena Connecta, are methanol-ready and feature advanced propulsion systems designed to support alternative fuels.
Their introduction will increase freight capacity by 40% on the Belfast-Heysham route, supporting growing demand for freight services between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
As part of Stena Line’s strategy to modernise its fleet and embrace alternative fuels, the vessel build reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship in maritime transport.
The successful trials pave the way for greener ferry operations in the Irish Sea.
Stena Futura is the first in a new class of ferries built for the Irish Sea and is on track to begin operations on the Belfast-Heysham route later this summer.
