The Irish Continental Group, which operates ferries, RoRos, and container ships, has chartered the ferry vessel “STAR” from the Tallink group. The Ferry Star will become the largest and fastest cruise ferry in the Irish Sea when it begins its service in June.
The vessel’s bareboat charter will start on May 5th, 2023. The initial charter period will be for 20 months, with the possibility of two extensions for two-year periods. Additionally, Irish Continental has a purchase option for the vessel.
The ferry STAR, built in Finland in April 2007, is a 36,249 gross ton ferry, 610 feet long, with 131 cabins and a total capacity of 2,080 passengers. It also has 2,380 lane meters for passenger cars, buses, and freight. Onboard amenities include facilities for freight drivers, a bar, gaming areas, pet facilities, and a children’s play area, among others.
The ship has consistently operated on the route between Finland and Estonia, with its final trip planned for May 1st. Irish Continental will introduce the vessel in June under a new name, the “OSCAR WILDE.”
The “OSCAR WILDE” can operate at speeds of up to 27.5 knots and will serve the route between Rosslare in Southeast Ireland and Pembroke in Wales. The ship will also have the largest duty-free shopping area of 17,000 square feet in the Irish Sea.
The opinions expressed herein are the author’s and not necessarily those of News2Sea.
#Irish #Continental #Introduce #Cruise #Ferry #Irish #Sea