Spanish shipping firm Balearia has taken delivery of its second LNG dual-fuel fast ferry, Margarita Salas, from compatriot shipbuilder Armon Gijon.
Balearia announced this in a statement on Friday saying that the LNG-powered ferry will start operating in Spain’s Balearic Islands next week.
The vessel will connect Mallorca, Menorca, and Barcelona throughout the year.
Balearia ordered the new LNG-powered fast ferry at Armon Gijon in October 2022.
This order followed the delivery of its 123 meters long sister vessel, Eleanor Roosevelt, in April 2021.
While the dimensions of the two ships are the same, the new vessel’s four Wartsila dual-fuel engines of 9,600kW each have ten percent greater power and increased efficiency.
Armon Gijon launched the 123 meters long Margarita Salas in December last year and the vessel completed its first sea trials in early June.
According to the statement, Margarita Salas is the 1000th vessel Armon Gijon built up to date.
Balearia has invested 126 million euros ($136.4 million) in the construction of the LNG-powered ferry.
The vessel has two LNG tanks, which provide a range of about 400 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.
Balaria now owns 11 LNG-powered ferries, including converted vessels.
In December 2023, the firm purchased the LNG dual-fuel ferry, Rusadir.
