Freight only ro-ro for Italy-Greece

News 3 Dec 2009 by WCN Editorial

Adriatic Lines, a joint venture of Italian Trans Ferry SpA and Greek Ocean Finance Ltd, has introduced what it claims is the first freight-only ro-ro service between Italy and Greece, linking Ravenna with Corinth

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Initially there are four sailings per week each way and from next month the service will include a “half way call” at Igoumenitsa, to cater particularly for hauliers to and from Turkey and Bulgaria.

The route is operated by two 3150 lane/metre vessels, which were refurbished last year. They have a capacity for 165 trucks and trailers and accommodation for up to 200 drivers. Each lane is 3m wide and corner heights of 4.9m can be accommodated on each of the four decks.

“We have chosen the ships, ports, timetables and services that specifically cater for freight customers between Italy and Greece,” said Simon Taylor, managing director of Adriatic Lines.

“This is not only a new line but a new way of thinking about freight on the Adriatic Sea, ensuring significant cost savings for transport companies and improved on board accommodation for drivers.

“We have been working on this concept for more than one year, and our research shows that we will be meeting the demand of freight customers.”

The route is claimed to offer significant advantages compared to the current routes that connect Patras with Venice, Ancona, Bari and Bríndisi. Choosing Ravenna allows access to a terminal that is exclusively for freight, with secure parking for 300 trailers.

The geographic position of Ravenna allows the haulier to shorten the trip to Northern Italy by approximately 150 kms, thus saving 3-5 hours compared to Ancona, said Taylor.

Choosing Corinth allows the vessels to discharge just 65 km from Athens. The highway between Corinth and Athens is far less congested than the route from Patras, saving 135 kms and close to four hours in driving time.