Grimaldi Group invests in modern ferries for the Mediterranean and the Baltic Sea

Ferry Grimaldi Lines. Source: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

In Hong Kong, a USD 1.3 billion contract was signed for the construction of nine innovative ro-pax ferries, which will be built at China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Weihai). Six of the vessels will operate in the Mediterranean Sea — four under the Grimaldi Lines brand (Italian flag) and two under the Minoan Lines brand (Greek flag). The remaining three will be operated by Finnlines in the Baltic Sea under the Finnish flag. The ferries are scheduled to enter service between 2028 and 2030, and they are set to establish a new standard in ecology, comfort, and efficiency in maritime transport.

All new vessels will be equipped with engines capable of running on methanol, making them ready to achieve the “Net Zero Emission” goal in the future. Advanced technologies — such as optimized hull designs, energy-saving power management systems, and silicone coatings that reduce drag — are expected to lower CO₂ emissions per unit of cargo by over 50% compared to the vessels currently in operation. The ships will combine high transport capacity, innovative design, and onboard comfort, all perfectly aligned with environmental sustainability.

The new ferries for Grimaldi Lines and Minoan Lines, belonging to the „Next Generation Med.” class, will be 229 meters long and offer impressive transport capacity:

- 3,300 lane metres for rolling freight
- space for over 300 cars
- accommodation for up to 2,500 passengers
- more than 300 cabins and approximately 700 reclining seats

The three Finnlines ferries will be part of the „Hansa Superstar” class and are being built specifically for the Finland–Germany route. They will feature:

- 5,100 lane metres for cargo capacity
- 240 meters in length
- space for 90 cars
- 320 cabins for 1,100 passengers

An integral part of the investment includes cargo access solutions provided by MacGregor company. The contract covers equipment for all nine ferries.

With their impressive capacity, innovative design, and advanced environmental technologies, the new Grimaldi Group ferries will become one of the most technologically advanced ro-pax segments in the world. This investment will not only increase transport capabilities on key routes but also significantly reduce the environmental impact of maritime operations. It marks a breakthrough step for both the Grimaldi Group and the entire ferry industry in Europe.

Source:
[PROMY24.COM]