Stena Line’s Hybrid Ferry Stena Futura Completes Sea Trials, Set to Boost Irish Sea Freight Capacity

Stena Line has confirmed that its new hybrid ferry, Stena Futura, has successfully completed sea trials and remains on schedule to begin operations on the Belfast–Heysham route later this summer.

The trials, a key milestone in the vessel’s construction and commissioning, were carried out to ensure all systems meet operational standards. Testing covered a comprehensive range of criteria, including engine performance, fuel efficiency, navigation systems, safety protocols, maneuverability, and emergency response capabilities.

Stena Futura is the first of two next-generation hybrid ferries designed for the Irish Sea. Along with its sister ship Stena Connecta, the vessel will increase freight capacity by 40% on the Belfast–Heysham corridor, addressing growing demand for services between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

Both ships are central to Stena Line’s broader sustainability strategy. Equipped with battery propulsion and prepared for shore power connectivity where available, the ferries are part of the company’s commitment to significantly reduce carbon emissions.

“The successful sea trials of Stena Futura mark an important step forward,” said Niclas Mårtensson, CEO of Stena Line. “The Irish Sea continues to be a strong market for us, and these vessels will provide a much-needed increase in capacity for our customers. More importantly, they represent tangible progress toward our environmental goals.”

Stena Line aims to reduce its carbon emissions by 30% by 2030 and has been steadily investing in green technologies across its fleet and ports. The introduction of Stena Futura and Stena Connecta signals a shift toward more energy-efficient operations and cleaner transport solutions in regional shipping.

Tags: CleanTransport, Decarbonization, Maritime Innovation, Shipping, sustainable Shipping, Technologies
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