STENA FUTURA is on schedule to enter service on the Belfast-Heysham route in late summer, while sister ship STENA CONNECTA will follow in early 2026.

Once operational, the ships will enhance freight capacity by 40% on the Belfast-Heysham route in response to an increase in customer demand for services between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

The two hybrid vessels are equipped to operate on methanol fuel. They will also be enhanced with built-in technologies that enable them to utilise both battery propulsion and shore power when available. Stena Line is working closely with methanol suppliers to ensure future volumes of e-methanol, supporting the goal of cutting 30% of its CO2 emissions by 2030.

STENA CONNECTA will be fitted with two 28x4m Norsepower Rotor Sails, which are projected to deliver up to 9% fuel savings on the planned trade route, while STENA FUTURA will be delivered as “Rotor Sail ready”.

Niclas Mårtensson, CEO of Stena Line, said, "It is with great excitement that we announce that STENA FUTURA has successfully completed its sea trials. The Irish Sea region continues to be a booming market for Stena Line, and the significant boost these ships will provide to our freight capacity on the popular Belfast–Heysham route will be welcomed by the market.

“These vessels represent a crucial step in our broader sustainability journey. By integrating battery propulsion and shore power capabilities, we are making significant strides towards our goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030, reinforcing Stena Line's position as a leader in sustainable shipping."

Main particulars NewMax vessels:
Length: 147 metres
Beam: 26,3 metres
Draft: 5,2 metres
Freight capacity: 2,800 lane metres
Propulsion: Dual fuel methanol hybrid with 9 MWh battery capacity

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