Deltamarin has signed a contract with China Merchants Weihai Shipyard for the design and engineering of Finnlines’ new Hansa Superstar class ro-pax vessels.
The contract includes the complete basic and detail design of three ro-pax vessels built for Finnlines and to be operated in the Baltic Sea. The contract continues the successful collaboration between Deltamarin, Finnlines and Weihai shipyard, following the completion of the concept and contract design for the vessels earlier in 2025. The basic design project begins at Deltamarin immediately, with the majority of the work scheduled to be completed by early 2026.
The new design is an evolution of the Superstar-class vessels, but with enhanced quality of transport for both rolling cargo and passengers in the Baltic Sea. The new design has been adapted for the Finland-Germany route and will be better suited for longer crossings.
These vessels will combine high transport capacity, innovative design, and superior onboard comfort. Key features include multifuel engines, optimised hull and propeller designs, shore power connection, and energy-efficient onboard power management systems for both at sea and in port—all contributing to over a 50% reduction in CO₂ emissions per transported cargo unit compared to vessels currently operating on the same routes.
Each 240m vessel will offer 5,100 lane metres of cargo space for rolling freight, capacity for 90 cars, and accommodation for up to 1,100 passengers across 320 cabins. Designed with sustainability in mind, all vessels will be equipped with engines capable of running on methanol, supporting the goal of achieving net zero emissions. The vessels are scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2029.
Juha Ahia, Newbuilding and Projects Manager, Finnlines, said: “Together with Deltamarin, we have developed Superstar-class vessels, setting a completely new standard for freight and passenger traffic in the Baltic Sea. With our new investment programme, we are proud to continue this shared journey. Our longstanding and successful partnership with Deltamarin and China Merchants Weihai Shipyard have been instrumental in driving innovation and strengthening efficient maritime transport.”
Janne Uotila, MD Deltamarin, added: “The signed contract marks the continuation of a longstanding partnership between Deltamarin and Weihai Shipyard. Our partnership has continually delivered reliable, efficient and environmentally conscious vessels that meet the expectations of both the vessel owner and regulators. This order demonstrates the trust our clients place in our ability to design and deliver state-of-the-art ro-pax vessels. With this latest order, the total number of ro-paxes designed by Deltamarin and built by Weihai Shipyard reaches an impressive 22 ships during the last 10 years.”
Ou Shubo, Deputy GM, Weihai Shipyard, said: “The expertise and support Deltamarin provides have always been invaluable, and we look forward to delivering these next-generation vessels to Finnlines, which will play a key role in their sustainable fleet expansion.”
The new contract is considered to reinforce the track record of delivering efficient, innovative ro-pax vessels and highlights the proven performance of the Superstar-class design—serving as both the inspiration and foundation for the new Hansa Superstar class.
Image: Hansa Superstar class ro-pax (source: Deltamarin)
