In the autumn of 2025, the Swedish shipping company's Belfast-Heysham route will welcome two 147 m long freighters, each offering 2,800 lane metres of capacity.

These NewMaxes will be able to run on methanol, with Stena Line working on securing the bunker supply chain, including future volumes of e-methanol, to fulfil its goal of shifting to renewable fuels and cutting 30% of its CO2 emissions by 2030.

The newbuilds will also take advantage of battery propulsion and onshore power supply.

"The unique tidal systems prevailing in Heysham can be challenging, so each vessel will be fitted with a bespoke marine technology configuration making it more resilient to the prevailing weather conditions. Three bow thrusters will provide optimum maneuverability and reliability and a specially designed engine/propeller configuration will further enhance berthing capability in extreme weather," explained Stena Line in a press release.

Construction works on the two new vessels are about to start in Weihai.

Photo: Stena Line