Stena Line has unveiled plans for two new new bespoke freight ferries.

The leading ferry company has pledged a multi-million pound investment to expand its Belfast-Heysham freight service.

The 147-metre vessels are designed to maximise freight volumes and will provide 2,800 lane meters of capacity which is an 80% increase on current ship capacities. They will be equipped to carry 12 passengers and 26 crew.

The first of the new freight ferries will enter service on the route in autumn 2025.

The 'NewMax' vessels will be able to operate on methanol fuel. Stena Line is currently working closely with the supply chain of methanol and has secured future volumes of e-methanol to fulfil its strategic ambition of shifting to renewable fuels and cutting 30% of its CO2 emissions by 2030.

Future proofing of the new vessels for electrification will also be another priority during construction providing in-built technologies that can take advantage of both battery propulsion and shore power, where this is available.

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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 manoeuvrability and reliability and a specially designed engine/propeller configuration will further enhance berthing capability in extreme weather.

Paul Grant, Stena Line Trade Director said: "This is very significant day for Belfast – Heysham freight traffic. By adding an extra 80% capacity to the route, Stena Line has responded to growing demands from customers. 

"We have operated a very popular service on Belfast-Heysham for several years now but with restricted capacity it has been challenging to meet increased market growth. With the extra capacity, we will now be able to significantly enhance our service on this route and complement our Birkenhead, Cairnryan and Holyhead services."

Joe O'Neill, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour, added: "We are delighted to welcome today's announcement by Stena Line that two new vessels will support the increased volume of RoRo traffic moving through Belfast Harbour.

"We are committed to working in close collaboration with our long-standing and much valued partners at Stena Line, as we work together to invest in port infrastructure and develop as a world leading regional port. We share Stena Line's ambitions to meet increased market growth and exceed customer expectations and will continue to support them at this exciting time for the Belfast-Heysham freight route."