Stena Line's Strategic Moves: Long-Term Heysham Deal, NewMax Ferries, and Sustainability Push
Mon 8th January, 2024
Stena Line, the Irish Sea's largest ferry operator, has secured a significant 77-year deal with Peel Ports to continue sailing to Heysham Port until 2100. This commitment follows a similar agreement for the 12 Quays terminal at Birkenhead, solidifying Stena Line's partnership with Peel Ports.
Fleet Upgrade & Its Environmental Impact:
Stena Line has ordered two ultra-efficient freight ferries, the "NewMax" class, scheduled for delivery in 2025. This is set to increase freight capacity by 80% on the Belfast to Heysham route. These vessels, fueled by Methanol and equipped with battery hybrid technology, mark a significant step toward sustainability.
Investment in Infrastructure:
Peel Ports commits to investing in Heysham Port's infrastructure, including providing shore power for Stena Line's vessels, collaborating on terminal management, introducing a 'smart gate' check-in system, and increasing trailer holding capacity.
Long-term Commitment and Business Expansion:
Stena Line's Chief Operating Officer, Carl-Johan Hellner, and CEO, Niclas Mårtensson, emphasises the long-term commitment to Peel Ports and the importance of Heysham as a hub for their Irish Sea business. With this long-term agreement and new vessels, Stena Line gets a unique opportunity to enhance sustainability, offering more eco-friendly freight transport between Northern Ireland and the UK.
Market Presence:
Since the acquisition of Sealink British Ferries in 1990/91, the Irish Sea has become a major market for Stena Line. The company's Belfast route, now one of the busiest, serves Cairnryan, Liverpool, and Heysham, with additional services to Dublin, Holyhead, Rosslare, Fishguard, and Cherbourg.
Upcoming Route:
Stena Line will introduce a new freight-only ferry route between Dublin and Liverpool (Birkenhead) in February 2024, filling the gap left by the closure of P&O Ferries' Dublin to Liverpool link.
In summary, Stena Line's multifaceted approach involves long-term partnerships, fleet modernisation for sustainability, and strategic investments to fortify its position in the Irish Sea market.
