The planned newbuilding. Photo: Viking LineViking Line Abp and STX Finland Oy have signed a letter of intent for the construction of a 210 metres long, 57,000 GT car and passenger ferry for delivery in early 2013. The value of the order is EUR 240 million. The ferry will be built at the Turku shipyard and introduced on Viking Line’s service between Turku, Åland and Stockholm. The agreement includes an option for a sister vessel. The final contract is subject to an environmental support from the Finnish government.
The intention is to use LNG as fuel, even if there is no decision on this matter yet. The environmental impact of the newbuilding will be minimised, making it the most environmental friendly large passenger vessel to date.
The order is of utmost importance to STX Finland. The design of the newbuilding starts immediately at the Turku shipyard and steel works commence in the autumn of 2011.
The maximum number of passengers is set to 2,800 and there will be 870 passenger cabins. Car deck is planned for 1,300 lane metres for heavy vehicles. On a separate car deck there will be an additional 500 lane metres for private cars.