The methanol-powered RoPax vessel will strengthen Finnlines’ capability to provide low-emission freight and passenger transport services in the coming years. The Hansa Superstar class vessels combine large transport capacity, innovative design and a high level of passenger comfort in a way that supports environmental sustainability.

The Hansa Superstar class vessels will sail under the Finnish flag and are specifically designed for the long sea route between Finland and Germany. Fossil-free methanol, optimised hullform and propulsion, air lubrication, waste heat recovery, heat pumps, battery banks and shore power will reduce carbon dioxide emissions considerably compared to vessels currently operating on the route.

The vessels are about 240 metres long and offer 5,100 lane metres of cargo capacity. Passenger capacity is 1,000, and the vessels feature a total of 321 passenger cabins and 72 crew cabins.

The Hansa Superstar class vessels introduce new cabin categories and a wide range of dining options tailored to the needs of different passenger groups. The design has been driven by a strong focus on comfort and an enhanced overall travel experience, particularly on longer sea crossings.

Completely redesigned cabin categories offer a wide range of options to suit different needs and budgets, including suites, family cabins as well as comfort, deluxe and standard cabins. Several cabin categories also offer pet-friendly cabins and more affordable options for budget-conscious travellers.

Onboard services include a wide selection of restaurants and bars, such as a buffet restaurant, an à la carte restaurant, a grill restaurant, a café, several lounge and bar areas and a seasonal pop-up terrace on the outer deck. In addition, passengers will have access to a versatile spa and sauna area, a shop and play areas designed for children of different ages. One of the most striking new features is the forward-facing bar on deck 12, offering exceptional views during Baltic Sea crossings.

“With its new Superstar class vessels operating on the Naantali–Kapellskär route, Finnlines introduced the most innovative concept in the RoPax sector and set a new benchmark for RoPax traffic in the Baltic Sea. We are now taking this concept to the next level by commencing the construction of an even more versatile series of vessels. Continuous investments in our fleet demonstrate our commitment to bringing the most modern tonnage to Baltic Sea traffic, equipped with the best available environmental technology,” says Thomas Doepel, President and CEO at Finnlines. 

“The Hansa Superstar class vessels have been designed to meet the growing transport needs of industry and trade as well as the expectations of passengers. A strong and reliable sea connection between Finland and mainland Europe is a vital element of security of supply and the smooth functioning of supply chains, while at the same time we aim to offer passengers an increasingly high-quality and comfortable travel experience,” says Marco Palmu, Head of Passenger Services at Finnlines.

In connection with the steel-cutting ceremony, the first tour of the full-scale mock-up cabins and cabin corridors was also organised.

The steel-cutting ceremony marks another milestone in Finnlines’ twenty-year development programme, which includes the acquisition or construction of 20 new vessels. The latest investment programme comprises three Hansa Superstar class vessels, which are expected to enter service between 2028 and 2029.

Technical specifications of the vessel

• Length / breadth: 243.6 m / 33.8 m
• Gross tonnage: approx. 69,000
• Lanemetres: 5,100 m
• Passengers: 1,000
• Passenger cabins: 321, 72 crew cabins
• Speed: 22.1 knots
• Ice class: 1A Super
• Delivery: spring 2028, entry into service in summer 2028

Technology and environmental solutions

• Methanol-fuelled dual-fuel engines
• Optimised hullform and propulsion
• Air lubrication
• Waste heat recovery
• Heat pumps
• Shore power (5 MW)
• 2 MWh battery system
• First vessel under construction in a series of three Hansa Superstar class vessels
• Sister vessels: construction of the second vessel will commence in spring 2027 and the third in autumn 2027
• The value of the investment programme amounts to EUR 500 million

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