Stena Line to bolster cargo capacity on RoRo freight ferry pair

Stena RoRo has signed a conversion contract on behalf of Stena Line with China Merchants Jinling (Weihai) Shipyard for the installation of an additional cargo deck, increased thruster capacity and preparations for shore power onboard Stena Foreteller and Stena Forerunner RoRo freight ferries.

After conversion, the cargo capacity will increase by 30% and the vessels will be ready to meet future efficiency requirements, the company said. The conversion for both vessels is set to be finalised during 2025.

“At Stena RoRo we see the investment of the installations on the Stena Forerunner and Stena Foreteller as a way to improve services for our fleet customers. We strive to increase cargo capacity while also keeping sustainability in focus. It’s all part of Stena’s identity. Signing the contract with China Merchants Jinling Shipyard is a step in the right direction,” says Per Westling, Managing Director at Stena RoRo.

In 2023, both vessels underwent propeller replacements, application of silicone paint, and installation of interceptors. Additionally, the addition of an extra cargo deck is expected to contribute to a decrease in the carbon intensity index factor and further reduce CO2 emissions per cargo unit.

”The conversion of the Stena Forerunner and Stena Foreteller fits with our ambition to reduce our CO2 emissions. In addition to increasing the cargo capacity by 30% on both the Stena Forerunner and Stena Foreteller, we also take this opportunity to invest in onboard shore power,” says Niclas Mårtensson, CEO at Stena Line.

After the conversion the vessels will be deployed in the Stena Line route network.

Another recent collaboration with China Merchants Jinling Shipyard has been the order of the two NewMax hybrid vessels for Stena Line for the Irish Sea routes. These vessels will be delivered in 2025.