Spanish shipping firm Balearia expects to take delivery of its second LNG dual-fuel fast ferry, Margarita Salas, at the end of this month.
Balearia announced this in a statement on June 2 saying that the LNG-powered ferry has completed its first sea trials.
The ferry operator ordered the new LNG-powered fast ferry at Spanish shipbuilder Armon Gijon in October 2022, saying the newbuild will feature four Wartsila dual-fuel engines of 9,600kW each.
This order followed the delivery of its 123 meters long sister vessel, Eleanor Roosevelt, in April 2021 and this vessel also has Wartsila’s engines.
While the dimensions of the two ships are the same, the new vessel’s Wartsila engines will have ten percent greater power and increased efficiency.
Armon Gijon launched the 123 meters long Margarita Salas in December last year.
Balearia said it has invested 126 million euros ($136.7 million) in the construction of the LNG-powered ferry.
The vessel has two LNG tanks, which provide a range of about 470 miles on gas, and a total range of 1,000 miles, Balearia said.
It also has a second passenger deck and a capacity to transport 1,200 passengers and 450 vehicles.
The firm expects to start using Margarita Salas in early July and the vessel will connect Mallorca, Menorca, and Barcelona throughout the year.
Balaria now owns 11 LNG-powered ferries, including converted vessels.
In December 2023, the firm purchased the LNG dual-fuel ferry, Rusadir.
