Shippax Newsletter– week 15
We would like to extend our sincere thanks for everyone attending the Shippax Ferry Conference last week. We hope you got home safely and enjoyed your time onboard. We certainly did!
This year, we welcomed 486 delegates from more than 240 companies worldwide.
Photos
A selection of photos from the conference can be found here https://www.shippaxferryconference.com/en/conference-2025/photos-2025.aspx
Next year’s conference
Next year, the conference will be held on board GNV’s RHAPSODY, sailing between Genoa - Olbia and return, 5-7 May 2026. We hope to see you all then.
The conference website will be updated in the coming days, but it is possible to book early for the conference already now, which is particularly recommended to secure a desired sponsorship and/or exhibition stand.
Book for 2026 here https://www.shippaxferryconference.com/en/book-online.aspx
Once again, thank you on behalf of the entire Shippax team!
Winners of the 2025 Shippax Awards
© Shippax / Søren Lund Hviid
The 2025 Shippax Awards were handed out at the Shippax Ferry Conference, onboard Go Nordic Cruiseline’s NORDIC PEARL between 2-4 April.
The winners were:
NEREA
Operator/owner: Siremar / Caronte & Tourist
Shipyard: Sefine Shipyard
Naval architect: NAOS Ship and Boat Design
Interior design: NAOS Ship and Boat Design
SUNFLOWER KAMUY
Operator/owner: Ferry Sunflower / Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL)
Shipyard: Naikai Zosen
SAINT-MALO
Operator/owner: Brittany Ferries/Stena RoRo
Shipyard: CMI Jinling Weihai
Naval architect: Deltamarin
Interior design: Figura
HÖEGH AURORA
Operator/owner: Höegh Autoliners
Shipyard: CMHI Jiangsu
Designer: Deltamarin
CHAUMINE
Operator/owner: CLdN
Shipyard: Hyundai Mipo
Dan Sten Olsson
Lifetime achievement award
© Shippax / Jonas Persson
© Shippax / Jonas Persson
© Shippax / Jonas Persson
© Shippax / Jonas Persson
San Francisco Bay Ferry signs two-ship electric ferry contract with Nichols Brothers Boat Builders
Nichols Brothers Boat Builders announce a contract awarded from San Francisco Bay Ferry to design and construct two 400-passenger battery-electric ferries as part of the agency's Rapid Electric Emission Free (REEF) Ferry Program.
The 43.3m x 10.6m Subchapter K vessels will operate at 25 knots, serving central bay routes that seamlessly connect Oakland and Alameda to San Francisco.
Tampnet Selects Nowhere Networks as Strategic Supplier of Business-Critical Network Solutions
Tampnet, the leading offshore connectivity provider, has chosen Nowhere Networks as a strategic supplier of business-critical network technology to strengthen its robust offshore communications infrastructure. "Nowhere Networks solution is a perfect fit," says Elie Hanna, CEO of Tampnet.
NYK Cruises takes delivery of ASUKA III from MEYER WERFT
ASUKA III © Meyer Werft
NYK Cruises took delivery of ASUKA III from MEYER WERFT. The ASUKA III stands for a new and Japanese kind of luxury at sea. The 740-guest ship, which sails alongside the ASUKA III, will offer cruises from various ports in Japan.
At the MEYER WERFT, steel cutting ceremony for CARNIVAL FESTIVALE has also been held.
Newly introduced solution for Wärtsilä 50DF engine further reduces methane slip by up to 75 percent
Wärtsilä has introduced a new methane slip reduction solution for its Wärtsilä 50DF dual-fuel engine. The new technology, which converts Wärtsilä 50DF dual-fuel (DF) engines to spark gas (SG) operation, enables a more optimised combustion process, thereby improving efficiency and lowering methane emissions. Whilst operating on LNG, the new 'Spark Gas Conversion for Wärtsilä 50DF' is designed to reduce methane emissions up to 75 percent more than the standard Wärtsilä 50DF engine.
Baleària expands its connections with Algeria to five weekly services during the summer and begins operating the Tarifa-Tangier Ville route in the second week of May
REGINA BALTICA © Baleària
Baleària will strengthen its connections to Algeria during the summer by expanding its weekly service from three to five to meet the high passenger and vehicle demand concentrated at this time of year. From 15 June to 15 September, Baleària will operate three weekly connections to Mostaganem from Valencia, as well as one to Algiers and another to Oran from Barcelona. This latter route marks the second time the company has opened between the two countries from Barcelona. This new schedule allows the shipping company to offer its largest commercial offering to Algeria since it began operating in the country in 2016.
Baleària also announced that they will begin operating the Tarifa-Tangier Ville route in the second week of May. Tickets will launch next week, with initially operate four daily services from each port, with departures gradually increasing as the summer season progresses, from early morning until late evening.
Keel laying of sicily region’s new ro-pax at Fincantieri
The keel has been laid at Fincantieri for the Sicily Region's new EUR 114.6 million ro-pax, which will provide service between Lampedusa and Pantelleria. The new Naos-designed vessel will be entirely built in the Palermo shipyard, delivered in 2026, and will serve routes between Sicily and the islands of Lampedusa and Pantelleria.
The ferry will have a length of about 140 metres and a gross tonnage of approximately 14,500. It will be able to reach a maximum speed of 19 knots and have a capacity of 1,000 people and 200 cars on board. It will be equipped with a dual-fuel LNG engine and will also feature a photovoltaic system that, thanks to energy storage in a battery pack, will ensure it can remain in port with zero emissions for about four hours.
Wasaline Q1 2025 financial results
AURORA BOTNIA © Wasaline
Wasaline reports a first quarter for 2025 with revenue increased by 7.5%, setting a new record for the first quarter of the year. Both passenger traffic for cars and buses reached record levels. The freight business also showed a strong quarter, with a 10% increase. Despite March 2024 being an exceptionally strong month, cargo increased in both the number of units and in tonnage during the first quarter of 2025.
Fincantieri and Viking announce the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship and sign contracts for two new units
© Fincantieri
Fincantieri and Viking announced the first cruise ship in the world to be powered by hydrogen stored onboard for both propulsion and onboard electricity generation, the VIKING LIBRA. The vessel is currently under construction at the Fincantieri Ancona shipyard, with delivery scheduled for late 2026. Fincantieri and Viking also announced that they have signed an agreement for the construction of two new cruise ships for delivery in 2031.
Color Line 2024 financial results
© Jonas Persson
In 2024, Color Line's parent company Color Group achieved results in line with the peak year 2023. Color Line had a total operating income of NOK 6.7 billion (NOK 6.3 billion), while EBITDA ended at NOK 1.4 billion including one-off effects in 2024, marginally lower than in 2023. The company had an ordinary operating profit (EBIT) of NOK 808 million in 2024, down from NOK 819 million in 2023.
The world’s first "flying" electric ferry deemed a success – Stockholm Expands Service
Candela P-12 Nova
After a short winter break, the world's first electric hydrofoil ferry is about to take to the waters of Stockholm again.
New data from autumn operations shows that NOVA is a success – both among passengers and for the climate.
Candela P-12 is the world's first passenger ferry that combines electric propulsion with hydrofoil technology, allowing it to literally fly above the water surface – with lower energy consumption and higher speeds. The first unit, named NOVA, has operated in Stockholm's public transport system during the autumn.
Interferry Releases New Brochure: "E-cars on Board – A Safe Passage"
Interferry has launched a new resource for its members. The brochure, "E-cars on Board – A Safe Passage," addresses common concerns regarding battery electric vehicle (BEV) safety on ro-pax ferries. It provides clear, concise information based on recent research, including findings from projects such as Lash Fire, in which Interferry actively participated.
Grimaldi Group signs order for nine new ro-pax vessels
As part of its fleet expansion and renewal program, the Grimaldi Group has commissioned the construction of nine ro-pax vessels from China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Weihai). The agreement for these cutting-edge newbuilds is worth a total of USD 1.3 billion. Six vessels will be deployed in the Mediterranean under the Grimaldi Lines and Minoan Lines brands, while three will be operated by Finnlines in the Baltic Sea. Key features include reduced environmental impact and enhanced onboard comfort.
Telenor Maritime and Quvia Collaborate to Advance AI-Driven Connectivity in Cruise and Ferry
Announcement of the collaboration took place at the 2025 Shippax Ferry Conference
Telenor Maritime and Quvia, an AI-powered QoE platform, are collaborating to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to optimize Telenor's backhaul performance and enhance digital experiences for passengers and crew across the maritime industry.
As part of the initiative, the two companies will launch a Proof of Concept on Telenor Maritime's Connectivity Platform. The project will incorporate Quvia's AI-powered network management solution, Grid, to enable intelligent orchestration across Telenor's hybrid network and support more cost-efficient bandwidth usage—while maintaining a high quality of experience (QoE) for passengers and crew.
Fincantieri signs agreement with Carnival Corporation for two cruise ships for Aida Cruises
Fincantieri has signed an agreement with Carnival Corporation & plc for the design and construction of two new cruise ships for AIDA Cruises. The value of the agreement for the two ships, subject to financing and other typical terms and conditions, is considered as very important, representing a value exceeding EUR 2 billion.
This marks the first time that Fincantieri will build cruise ships for AIDA Cruises. The units are scheduled for delivery in early 2030 and late 2031. Each will feature approximately 2,100 guest cabins and will be equipped with multi-fuel engines, capable of operating LNG, Bio-diesel, and future sustainable fuels.
Carnival Cruise Line unveils information on new ships, fleet enhancements, deployment plans and destinations
Carnival Cruise Line has revealed plans for new ships, fleet upgrades, and destinations over the next five years under its "Innovation Itinerary," focussing on fun, guest experiences, and loyalty. President Christine Duffy announced details aboard CARNIVAL CELEBRATION at PortMiami, highlighting a 29-ship fleet, the upcoming Celebration Key opening in July 2025, and expansions like RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay in 2026. New Excel-class ships, CARNIVAL FESTIVALE (2027) and CARNIVAL TROPICALE (2028), will feature innovative zones, family-friendly amenities, and enhanced youth programmes. Three larger Project Ace ships will debut from 2029 to 2033.
deugro takes delivery of first of two new wind turbine transporting ro-ros
ROTRA FUTURA © Jiangsu Zhenjiang Shipyard
ROTRA FUTURA has been successfully delivered from the Jiangsu Zhenjiang Shipyard in China and is now on its way to Europe.
The new concept builds upon the existing tailor-made Rotra concept with the ROTRA MARE and ROTRA VENTE vessels. The new vessels have been designed to accommodate the increasing size and weight of the next generations of offshore wind turbine components and, at the same time, to ensure large cargo intake and operational flexibility.
Øresundslinjen launches a new bus route from Copenhagen to Gothenburg
With up to 20 weekly departures and seven strategic stops, Kombardo Expressen will offer a new, flexible and affordable transport solution to the Øresund region. With a brand-new bus route between Copenhagen and Gothenburg, Øresundslinjen, will embark on a journey with the bus company, Kombardo Expressen.
The route, which will be called Øresund Expressen on a daily basis, will offer new, flexible and affordable transport for tourists, commuters, students and families in the Øresund region from 8 May 2025.
Meyer Turku reaches turnaround and reports positive result from 2024
Meyer Turku Group's financial result for 2024 has been published. The company's turnover was EUR 1.8 billion, which marks a growth of 28 percent compared to the previous year. The net profit for the financial year 2024 was EUR 68.9 million (3,8% of the turnover).
The latest delivery from the Meyer Turku shipyard is MEIN SCHIFF 7 from June 2024. It is the first methanol-ready ship built at the Turku shipyard.
AS Tallink Grupp Q1 statistics
In the first quarter of the year, AS Tallink Grupp transported 970,359 passengers, which is 12% less than in the same period last year. There was also a decline in cargo and passenger vehicle transport volumes, as economic uncertainty persisted across the region and part of the fleet was either idle or undergoing extended dry-docking.
While the number of passengers decreased by 12% in Q1 2025 compared to the same period last year, the volume of cargo units dropped by nearly 32% to 57,830 units, and the number of transported passenger vehicles declined by about 11% to 135,829 units.
Øresund ferry to Alslinjen
MERCANDIA IV
Two delayed electric ferries are forcing Molslinjen to switch to several ferries to make the summer run smoothly on the Alslinjen. The Alslinjen will be reinforced in May with the Øresund ferry, MERCANDIA IV, which, together with the ferry FRIGG, will ensure hourly service between Bøjden and Fynshav.
GNV announces its entry into the Algerian market
GNV announced its entry into the Algerian market. This strategic step expands the Company's service offerings in the Maghreb area through the launch of new international routes, aiming to strengthen its position in the Mediterranean.
As part of the 2025 schedule, starting from June 3 until September 30, the Company will introduce two weekly connections to Algeria: Sète – Algiers and Sète – Bejaia, each operating once a week. The vessel FANTASTIC will operate on all routes.
Only four New Major Vessels (NMVs), not five, for BC Ferries
The independent BC Ferry Commission has approved the procurement of four New Major Vessels (NMVs), marking a significant step forward in BC Ferries' long-term fleet renewal plans. With today's decision—which includes not approving a requested fifth vessel—the Commission has also highlighted significant challenges facing the ferry system, primarily the systemic funding gap, that will need to be addressed for customers and communities to benefit from the level of service they expect.
Stena Line Develops New Concept Vessel
One of Stena Line's central goals is to reduce CO2 emissions by 30 percent by 2030. The path to this goal involves a range of activities across many areas, not least the decarbonization of the vessel fleet. This is being done both by improving the efficiency of the existing fleet and by developing a new generation of vessels with optimized features and new technologies.
Stena Line's latest concept for the new generation of vessels is STENA FUTURO, a 240-meter-long RoRo vessel intended for transporting semi-trailers and cars.
Tallink sells ferry STAR I, SUPERFAST IX to continue on the Paldiski-Kapellskär route
SUPERFAST IX © Tallink Grupp
AS Tallink Grupp has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Irish company Irish Continental Group plc to sell the passenger ferry STAR I. The vessel, which has been operating on the Paldiski-Kapellskär route, will be replaced by SUPERFAST IX.
FSG Shipyard restarts work on the construction of the LNG-powered RoRo ferry for SeaRoad
The steel cut 2.0 at FSG Shipyard (formerly Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft) for the RoRo ferry for the Australian shipping company SeaRoad. FSG CEO Thorsten Rönner and Tony Johnson, Technical Marine Manager of the shipping company, jointly give the signal for the steel cut with the C57 module from section 43, the weather deck which is 23 meters above the keel.
CLdN announces multi-million-pound investment in Killingholme terminal
CLdN announced a major investment plan for its terminal at Killingholme on the river Humber. The project will be completed in the second half of 2026. The investment will lead to a significant enhancement of cargo handling capabilities at the terminal and will cater for projected volume growth on CLdN's North Sea connections between Killingholme and CLdN's terminals in Rotterdam and Zeebrugge.
The Port of Barcelona inaugurates its first OPS for ferries at Grimaldi Terminal Barcelona
The Port of Barcelona has already operational its first Onshore Power Supply (OPS) for ferries at Grimaldi Terminal Barcelona, on the Sant Bertran quay. This OPS supplies daily electricity of 100% renewable origin to the ferries that connect Barcelona with the Balearic Islands, allowing them to stop their engines and eliminating the emissions and noise they generate while in port.
New Managing Director for AML Appointed
Rachid Houari has been appointed to lead ferry operations in the Strait of Gibraltar as the new Directeur Général (Managing Director) for African Morocco Link (AML).
Rachid has done his Bsc in shipping operations in Southampton, his MBA at ENPC Paris, and has more than 25 years of maritime experience in ferry, RoRo, and port operations in the shipping sector between Morocco and Spain.
Fincantieri signs agreement with TUI AG for two new cruise ships for Marella Cruises
Fincantieri and TUI AG signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the design and construction of two new cruise ships for the Marella Cruises brand. The value of this agreement, subject to financing and other typical terms and conditions, is considered as "very important".
The ships will be designed specifically for the English market and have a focus on environmental sustainability. They will redefine premium cruising through refined design, high-quality materials, and a variety of spacious accommodations.
The two vessels will be delivered in calendar year 2030 and 2032.
Contract signed with Remontowa Shipbuilding for CMAL’s small vessels
Following a mandatory 10-day standstill period, the contract for seven new loch-class electric ferries has been awarded. Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) and Remontowa Shipbuilding in Poland have signed the contract to build the small vessels, which will support island communities and improve the resilience of the Clyde and Hebrides ferry fleet. It is expected that the first ferry will be delivered in 2027.
MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique celebrate triple milestones
MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l'Atlantique celebrated three significant milestones for their World Class ships in Saint-Nazaire, France: the delivery of MSC WORLD AMERICA, the coin ceremony for MSC WORLD ASIA, and the steel-cutting ceremony for the newly named MSC WORLD ATLANTIC.
The 22-deck and 216,638gt MSC WORLD AMERICA measures 333.3 metres in length and is 47 metres wide, with a capacity for 6,762 passengers and 2,138 crew, features 2,614 cabins and offers more than 38,400 sqm of public space.
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