Belfast Harbour witnessed a historic moment as Stena Line officially named its latest hybrid Ro-Ro freight ferry, Stena Futura. This milestone marks the company’s commitment to greener shipping and celebrates 30 years of partnership with Belfast.
A Game-Changer for Freight Transport
The Stena Futura is part of Stena Line’s NewMax class, designed to deliver efficiency and sustainability. Key features include:
- Length: 147 metres
- Beam: 26.3 metres
- Freight Capacity: 2,800 lane metres – an 80% increase over previous vessels
- Hybrid Propulsion: Dual-fuel methanol-ready engines combined with a 9 MWh battery system
- Future-Ready: Shore power connectivity and wind-assist capability
These innovations align with Stena Line’s goal to reduce CO₂ emissions by 30% by 2030, setting a benchmark for eco-friendly maritime transport.
Strategic Investment
Stena Line has invested over £100 million in Stena Futura and its sister ship, Stena Connecta, due in early 2026. Together, they will boost freight capacity on the Belfast–Heysham route by 40%, supporting trade and reducing environmental impact.
Ceremony Highlights
The naming ceremony at Belfast Cruise Terminal was attended by over 200 guests, including:
- Dr Madeleine Olsson Ericksson, godmother and representative of the Olsson family (Stena Line owners)
- Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly
- Belfast Harbour Commissioners
This event was the first naming ceremony at Belfast Harbour in 20 years, underscoring its significance for the region.
Why It Matters
The launch of Stena Futura reflects a broader industry shift towards low-emission shipping solutions. With hybrid technology, methanol readiness, and battery integration, Stena Line is paving the way for sustainable freight transport across Europe.
The Maritime-Hub Editorial Team
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Maritime-Hub. Readers are advised to research this information before making decisions based on it.
