Finnlines orders new Ro-Pax vessels for Baltic Sea operation

Deltamarin has signed a contract with China Merchant Weihai Shipyard for the design and engineering of Finnlines’ new Ro-Pax vessels. The signed contract includes the complete basic and detail design of three Ro-Pax vessels built for Finnlines and to be operated in the Baltic Sea.

The basic design project will begin at Deltamarin immediately, with the majority of the work scheduled to be completed by early 2026.

The new design is an evolution of a recent series, but with enhanced quality of transport for both rolling cargo and passengers in the Baltic Sea.

Deltamarin said the new design had been adapted for the Finland-Germany route and would be better suited for longer crossings, feature new cabin categories and provide restaurant options tailored to different passenger preferences, with a strong focus on the overall onboard experience.

"These vessels will combine high transport capacity, innovative design, and superior onboard comfort," said Deltamarin.

"Key features include multifuel engines, optimised hull and propeller designs, shore power connection, and energy-efficient onboard power management systems for both at sea and in port - all contributing to over a 50 per cent reduction in [local] CO₂ emissions per transported cargo unit compared to vessels currently operating on the same routes."

Each 240-metre vessel will offer 5,100 lane metres of cargo space for rolling freight, capacity for 90 cars, and accommodation for up to 1,100 passengers across 320 cabins.

All vessels will be equipped with engines capable of running on methanol. The vessels are scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2029.