The transaction includes the 2004-built RoPax VOLCAN DE TAMASITE deployed on Algeciras-Tangier Med. Permits related to route operations are also included and around 200 employees will transfer to DFDS. The total purchase price for the Algeciras-Tangier Med route assets is DKK 165 million. The transaction was completed today.

As reported by Shippax earlier today, the 2004-built VOLCAN DE TAMASITE will be renamed MARHABA SEAWAYS in its new ownership.

The route will be merged with DFDS’ existing ferry route on Strait of Gibraltar between Algeciras and Tangier Med. This will expand and enhance DFDS’ customer offering to both freight customers and passengers and add scale to operations in a growing market.

In addition, the capacity share is increased from 33% to 50% on a joint freight ferry (RoRo) for the incumbent operators on Algeciras-Tangier Med.

DFDS’ agreement to acquire Naviera Armas’ Strait of Gibraltar ferry operations on Algeciras-Ceuta was conditional on the degree of competition authority restrictions. As the Spanish competition authority’s requirements went beyond the agreed conditions with a demand for a second operator, DFDS has decided not to proceed with this agreement.

DFDS’ 2026 full-year capex outlook is maintained unchanged at DKK 1.7 billion as the added acquisition capex of DKK 165 million is expected to be offset by lower-than-expected operating capex. The Adjusted free cash flow outlook is unchanged as acquisition capex is not reported as part of the Adjusted free cash flow.

“The Strait of Gibraltar is an important link for trade and travel, and we are looking forward to continuing to serve the region with additional capacity. This will provide greater flexibility and enhanced connectivity for both freight and passenger customers,” says Michael Hansen, CEO of DFDS.

In addition to the ferry, DFDS will take over existing permits related to operations on the route. The vessel will join DFDS' existing fleet of two ferries, KATTEGAT and TANGER EXPRESS, operating in the Strait of Gibraltar.

“Adding a third vessel to our fleet strengthens our position in the Strait of Gibraltar and gives us greater flexibility to meet our customers’ transport needs. It also enables us to further develop our operations and support growing demand in the years ahead,” says Ronny Moriana Glindemann,Managing Director, Strait of Gibraltar, DFDS.  

VOLCAN DE TAMASITE is familiar with the seas of the strait, having sailed on the same route for several years. It can carry up to 1,469 passengers and 1,414 lane meters of freight. It is expected to enter service with DFDS from Mid-November.

With more than 10.000 sailings annually, DFDS routes in the Strait of Gibraltar support both passenger and freight transport. Key cargo flows include fresh produce, automotive parts and components, textiles, and industrial and specialised goods.

Read also: MARHABA SEAWAYS joins DFDS fleet 

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