Finnlines has taken delivery of the first of four ro-ros undergoing ‘jumboisation’ at Remontowa shipyard in Gdansk, Poland.
The Finntide (built 2012) was the first vessel to under the Finnish ferry operators EUR 70m ($83m) energy efficiency and emission reduction investment programme.
The project involves four Breeze-class ships being cut in two and a 30-metre section inserted adding around 1,000 additional lane metres to vessel capacity.
“The close to 30% capacity increase will considerably reduce the energy consumption per transported unit compared to the original vessel,” says Finnlines.
“In other words, it will improve energy efficiency further and thus contribute more to reducing emissions.”
The Chinese-built Finntide is due to return to service between Uusikaupunki/Turku–Travemunde on Sunday.
The whole lengthening programme will be completed by May 2018. However, Finnlines has an option to lengthen two more Breeze-class ships.
“Finnlines has continued to invest in its fleet to become a more environmentally friendly and a more sustainable shipping company,” said chief financial officer Tom Pippingskold.
“We continue to optimise our operations and seek for growth in order to strengthen our competitive position.
“In response to growing demand, we are expanding our fleet capacity through this lengthening programme. This way we can serve our customers better.”
