Stena Line Names Methanol-Ready Hybrid Ferry Stena Futura at Belfast Harbour
Swedish ferry company Stena Line has officially named Stena Futura, its new methanol-ready hybrid freight ferry, at Belfast Harbour, Northern Ireland’s key maritime hub.
The vessel marks a major milestone in Stena Line’s 30-year partnership with Belfast and reflects the company’s continued pursuit of sustainable shipping solutions.
A Next-Generation Freight Ferry
The 147-meter Stena Futura is the first of two next-generation “NewMax” freight vessels custom-built for the busy Belfast–Heysham route. Equipped with methanol-ready engines, hybrid propulsion, battery capability, and shore power connectivity, the ferry incorporates advanced technology to support greener operations.
These innovations align with Stena Line’s wider ambition of cutting CO₂ emissions by 30% by 2030.
Investment Signals Long-Term Commitment
Speaking at the vessel’s naming ceremony on November 21, 2025, Stena Line CEO Niclas Mårtensson highlighted the company’s continued investment in sustainable maritime transport:
“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.”
A Boost for Northern Ireland’s Maritime Sector
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly emphasized Stena Line’s long-standing role in the region:
“Stena Line has been part of the fabric of the Northern Ireland economy for decades, connecting people, goods, and opportunities between Northern Ireland, GB and beyond.”
“This investment of over £100 million is a testament to Stena’s belief in our potential and confidence in our region. This is a proud moment for our maritime sector, and for Northern Ireland. I thank Stena Line for its continued commitment, and I wish Stena Futura and sister ship Stena Connecta safe and successful voyages ahead.”
Supporting Future Freight Growth
Joe O’Neil, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour, noted the vessel’s early成果 on the route:
“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.”
Built for Capacity and Efficiency
The 147-meter-long, 26.3-meter-wide Stena Futura arrived at Belfast Harbour in September after being constructed at the China Merchants Jinling Shipyard in Weihai.
Together with its sister vessel Stena Connecta, expected to enter service in early 2026, Stena Futura will increase freight capacity on the Belfast–Heysham route by 40%. This expansion will provide hauliers and exporters with more efficient, reliable, and environmentally responsible transport options.
