Irish Ferries to build new €144 million cruise ferry

By Tom Eddershaw - June 2, 2016.

Irish Ferries’ reached an agreement with German shipbuilder Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesselschaft, to build a new cruise ferry costing €144 million (US$160 million).

The new ferry will accommodate 1,885 passengers and crew, with a dedicated car deck with capacity for 300 passenger cars, plus 435 cabins and capacity for 165 freight vehicles. It will be powered by four main engines delivering 33,600kW.

Passenger facilities will be spread over four decks and will offer 435 cabins in addition to number of bars, restaurants. There will also be a choice of entertainment options and cinemas, retail outlets and onboard facilities for pets.

Irish Ferries has said the new ship is likely to be introduced on routes served by the chartered ship ‘Epsilon’, currently between Ireland, Wales and France.

The ship is scheduled for delivery in May 2018.