By
Rebecca Gibson |
China Merchants Weihai Shipyard (Weihai Shipyard) has contracted Deltamarin to design and engineer three new Hansa Superstar-class ropax ferries for Baltic Sea operator Finnlines, all of which will be delivered between 2028 and 2029.
Each 240-metre vessel will accommodate up to 1,100 passengers (in 320 cabins) and 90 cars, and have 5,100 lane metres of cargo space for rolling freight. Deltamarin has based the design of the ferries on Finnlines’ current Superstar-class vessels but has adapted it to ensure the newbuilds are well-equipped for the longer Baltic Sea crossing between Finland and Germany. For example, they will offer new cabin categories and restaurant options to improve the overall onboard experience.
The ferries will have optimised hull and propeller designs, multifuel engines capable of running on methanol, shore power connection capabilities and energy-efficient onboard power management systems for use at sea and in port. Together, these features will help to halve carbon dioxide emissions per transported cargo unit compared to vessels currently operating on the same routes.
“Together with Deltamarin, we have developed the Superstar-class vessels, setting a completely new standard for freight and passenger traffic in the Baltic Sea,” said Juha Ahia, manager of newbuilding and projects at Finnlines. “With our new investment programme, we are proud to continue this shared journey. Our longstanding and successful partnership with Deltamarin and Weihai Shipyard has been instrumental in driving innovation and strengthening efficient maritime transport.”
Deltamarin will begin the project immediately and expects to complete the majority of the work by early 2026.
“Our partnership has continually delivered reliable, efficient and environmentally conscious vessels that meet the expectations of both the vessel owner and regulators,” said Janne Uotila, managing director of Deltamarin. “This order demonstrates the trust our clients place in our ability to design and deliver state-of-the-art ropax vessels.”
When this contract is complete, Deltamarin and Weihai Shipyard will have jointly designed and built 22 ships in the last 10 years.
“The new contract reinforces the track record of delivering efficient, innovative ropax vessels in the market and highlights the proven performance of the Superstar-class design – serving as both the inspiration and foundation for the new Hansa Superstar class,” said Ou Shubo, deputy general manager at Weihai Shipyard.