The ferry operator says the new ro-pax vessels are part of its EUR 500 million investment programme, which comprises of both ro-pax and ro-ro vessels.
The company also saw three of its new hybrid ro-ro vessels start operations this summer. The first ro-pax vessel will start operating on the Kapellskär–Långnäs–Naantali route in autumn 2023.
Named the Finnsirius and Finncanopus, the vessels will have a capacity of 1,100 passengers, which is about twice as many as the existing ro-pax vessels on the route. The cargo capacity will also increase, from just over 4,000 lane metres to 5,200 lane metres.
Commenting on the announcement, Antonio Raimo, Line Manager at Finnlines, said:
“Our service between Sweden and Finland has been very popular with customers. Increasing cargo and passenger capacity and improving passenger comfort on the route will strengthen the service and reinforce Finnlines as the main maritime service provider between the two countries. As the Superstar ro-pax vessels enter the traffic, we will further increase economies of scale to support new business development and opportunities for our customers.”
Marco Palmu, Head of Passenger Services at Finnlines, added:
“The new generation Superstar ro-pax vessels will combine modern travel comfort with the premium freight services for which Finnlines is renowned. We intend to offer the most convenient and easiest way to travel by sea between Sweden, the Åland Islands and mainland Finland. The unique Baltic Sea archipelago is present throughout the travel experience and our passengers will be able to take in the maritime atmosphere with all their senses.”
The new vessels, according to Finnlines, will feature “high-quality restaurants, a sauna and spa section, business and lounge facilities, extensive shopping areas and a variety of other services.”