Stena Line has launched its second new ship, Stena Connecta, with a ceremony at its shipyard in China.
It will be one of two hybrid vessels from the line to serve the route across the Irish Sea from Heysham, Lancashire, to Belfast.
The China Merchants Jinling Shipyard in Weihai will continue installing the interior of the ship before it is due to enter service in early 2026.
Stena Future is currently being fitted out and is on track to enter service in late August.
Both ships will be equipped to operate on methanol fuel and use battery propulsion and shore power when available.
Stena Connecta will also be fitted with rotor sails to harness wind power and reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Paul Grant, trade director at Stena Line, said: “The launch of Stena Connecta marks a pivotal moment for Stena Line as we continue to enhance our service offerings on the Belfast-Heysham route.
“With a 40% increase in freight capacity, these new hybrid vessels will significantly boost our ability to meet the growing demand for efficient and reliable transport between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
“Stena Line is committed to supporting trade across the Irish Sea, and the advanced technologies on Stena Connecta and Stena Futura, including methanol fuel capabilities and rotor sails, underscore our dedication to innovation and sustainability.
“By investing in these state-of-the-art vessels, we are not only strengthening our commercial operations but also contributing to the economic vitality of the region.”
Phil Hall, Mersey port director at Peel Ports Group, said the company was investing in port infrastructure to support the increased capacity, including a new terminal management system and expanded trailer parking.