The keel of a ferry to be built for P&O Ferries was laid at STX Europe, Rauma, on August 25. The vessel is the first of the two ferries scheduled for delivery in 2010 and 2011.
Following a traditional ceremony, some lucky coins were placed under the keel. Delegates of P&O Ferries, Lloyd's Register and STX Europe were present to witness the ceremony.
When completed, this vessel will be the largest ferry in the English Channel. The 49,000GT vessel will have a length of 212 metres and 3,746 lane metres of vehicle space. There will be space for more than180 freight vehicles and up to 195 tourist vehicles. The vessels will be capable of carrying up to 1,750 passengers.