South Korean operator Starline acquires new catamaran ferry

South Korean vessel operator Starline will soon take delivery of a new fast catamaran ferry.

The order for the new 42- by 11-metre aluminium ferry was placed in May 2025. Delivery of the vessel is scheduled to take place within seven weeks following the contract signing.

Starline purchased the vessel to operate on the route between Busan on the mainland and the Japanese island of Tsushima. Currently, the company operates a 40-metre fast ferry and wanted a slightly larger vessel that is also suited to the sometimes harsh, open sea conditions experienced on the route.

The new ferry will have a crew of five and will be able to transport up to 439 passengers at a top speed of 40 knots. The main deck will have seating for 295 people and space for wheelchairs while the remaining 144 passengers will be accommodated on the upper deck.

Space will also be available for luggage.