Stena Line held a naming ceremony for its latest vessel, ‘Stena Futura’ in Belfast Harbour, the first such ceremony in Belfast for about 20 years.
The new hybrid freight ferry is said to be a significant milestone in Stena Line’s 30-year partnership with Belfast and its journey toward sustainable shipping. The 147m Stena Futura is the first of two next-generation NewMax freight vessels purpose-built for the Belfast–Heysham route. The ship is methanol-ready and equipped with hybrid propulsion systems, including 9MWh battery capability and shore power connectivity as well as being prepared for wind assisted propulsion. These innovations will help Stena Line achieve its goal of reducing CO₂ emissions by 30% by 2030.
Stena Line CEO Niclas Mårtensson said: “The naming of Stena Futura is a proud moment for Stena Line and Belfast Harbour. This vessel along with sister ship Stena Connecta represents over £100 million investment in our Irish Sea network and clearly demonstrates our ongoing commitment to meeting growing freight demand, while leading the way in sustainable shipping.”
Joe O’Neil, CEO Belfast Harbour, added: “We were proud to host the naming of Stena Futura at Belfast Harbour… marking 30 years of strategic partnership that we truly value. The new vessel is already proving successful on the Belfast–Heysham route, and we can see significant potential for further growth in freight volumes when Stena Connecta enters service next year. We look forward to building on the incredibly strong ties we have with Stena Line, strengthening our collaboration and further enhancing the connectivity that drives long-term economic growth for the region.”
Stena Futura offers 2,800 lane metres freight capacity, and together with sister vessel Stena Connecta, due to enter service in early 2026, will boost freight capacity on the Belfast–Heysham route by 40%, supporting hauliers and exporters with more efficient and environmentally responsible transport solutions.
Image: ‘Stena Futura’ naming (source: Stena Line)
