The Saint-Malo: A New Era in Sustainable Ferry Travel
October 26, 2024, 6:14 am
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, the maritime industry is navigating a new course. The recent delivery of the Saint-Malo, a RoPax vessel from Stena RoRo, marks a significant milestone in this journey. This ship is not just another ferry; it is a beacon of innovation and environmental responsibility.
The Saint-Malo is the eleventh vessel in the E-Flexer series, a fleet designed with the future in mind. Built at the CMI Jinling shipyard in China, it is set to join Brittany Ferries’ operations in February 2025. This vessel will replace the Bretagne, a ship that has served the Portsmouth to Saint-Malo route since 1987. The transition from the old to the new symbolizes a broader shift in maritime travel—one that prioritizes sustainability without sacrificing comfort.
At the heart of the Saint-Malo’s design is its impressive battery-hybrid system. With a capacity of 12 MWh, this system allows the ship to operate on battery power alone when entering and leaving port. Imagine a ship gliding silently into harbor, powered only by the energy stored in its batteries. This innovation significantly reduces CO2 emissions, a critical step in combating climate change.
The vessel is equipped with multi-fuel engines, capable of running on marine diesel, liquefied natural gas (LNG), biodiesel, or biogas. This flexibility ensures that the Saint-Malo can adapt to future fuel developments. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for propulsion—ready for any challenge that comes its way.
Charging the batteries is a breeze, thanks to an 8 MW shore connection. This high-speed charging capability allows the Saint-Malo to enjoy a completely fossil-free stay in port. When it’s time to set sail, the ship can reach speeds of up to 17.5 knots on battery power alone. This combination of speed and sustainability sets a new standard for ferry travel.
The interior of the Saint-Malo is a nod to its roots. Designed by Figura Arkitekter AB, the ship features over 380 passenger cabins, the highest capacity in the E-Flexer series. Each cabin is a cozy retreat, reflecting the charm of the Brittany region. The public spaces, including the Breizh Ma Bro Bar, invite passengers to relax and enjoy their journey.
The E-Flexer series is not just about size; it’s about adaptability. Each vessel is tailored to meet the specific needs of its operator. The hull, propellers, and rudders are optimized for performance and energy efficiency. This level of customization ensures that the Saint-Malo will operate at the forefront of sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Stena RoRo’s commitment to innovation is evident in the E-Flexer concept. The company has continuously evolved its designs to meet and exceed international environmental standards. The Saint-Malo is a testament to this dedication. It is equipped with a scalable PTI/PTO system, allowing for future upgrades to operate entirely on batteries or a combination of fuels.
The Saint-Malo is chartered to Brittany Ferries for ten years, with a purchase option after four years. This long-term commitment reflects the confidence in the vessel’s capabilities and the growing demand for sustainable travel options. Brittany Ferries is modernizing its fleet, and the Saint-Malo is a key player in this transformation.
The delivery of the Saint-Malo is part of a larger trend in the maritime industry. As environmental regulations tighten, companies are investing in greener technologies. The E-Flexer series is leading the charge, with 15 vessels ordered and eleven already delivered. Each ship represents a step toward a more sustainable future.
Brittany Ferries, founded by a cooperative of Breton farmers, has deep roots in the region. The company has evolved from transporting vegetables to becoming a major player in ferry travel. Today, it operates 14 routes connecting France, Great Britain, Spain, and Ireland. The Saint-Malo will enhance this network, offering passengers a modern and eco-friendly travel option.
The maritime industry is at a crossroads. The Saint-Malo embodies the shift toward sustainability. It’s not just a vessel; it’s a symbol of progress. As it prepares to sail into service, it carries with it the hopes of a greener future.
In conclusion, the Saint-Malo is more than a ferry. It is a floating testament to innovation, sustainability, and the spirit of adventure. As it embarks on its maiden voyage, it invites passengers to join in the journey toward a cleaner, more responsible way of traveling. The sea is vast, and the possibilities are endless. With vessels like the Saint-Malo, the future of ferry travel looks bright.
The Saint-Malo is the eleventh vessel in the E-Flexer series, a fleet designed with the future in mind. Built at the CMI Jinling shipyard in China, it is set to join Brittany Ferries’ operations in February 2025. This vessel will replace the Bretagne, a ship that has served the Portsmouth to Saint-Malo route since 1987. The transition from the old to the new symbolizes a broader shift in maritime travel—one that prioritizes sustainability without sacrificing comfort.
At the heart of the Saint-Malo’s design is its impressive battery-hybrid system. With a capacity of 12 MWh, this system allows the ship to operate on battery power alone when entering and leaving port. Imagine a ship gliding silently into harbor, powered only by the energy stored in its batteries. This innovation significantly reduces CO2 emissions, a critical step in combating climate change.
The vessel is equipped with multi-fuel engines, capable of running on marine diesel, liquefied natural gas (LNG), biodiesel, or biogas. This flexibility ensures that the Saint-Malo can adapt to future fuel developments. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for propulsion—ready for any challenge that comes its way.
Charging the batteries is a breeze, thanks to an 8 MW shore connection. This high-speed charging capability allows the Saint-Malo to enjoy a completely fossil-free stay in port. When it’s time to set sail, the ship can reach speeds of up to 17.5 knots on battery power alone. This combination of speed and sustainability sets a new standard for ferry travel.
The interior of the Saint-Malo is a nod to its roots. Designed by Figura Arkitekter AB, the ship features over 380 passenger cabins, the highest capacity in the E-Flexer series. Each cabin is a cozy retreat, reflecting the charm of the Brittany region. The public spaces, including the Breizh Ma Bro Bar, invite passengers to relax and enjoy their journey.
The E-Flexer series is not just about size; it’s about adaptability. Each vessel is tailored to meet the specific needs of its operator. The hull, propellers, and rudders are optimized for performance and energy efficiency. This level of customization ensures that the Saint-Malo will operate at the forefront of sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Stena RoRo’s commitment to innovation is evident in the E-Flexer concept. The company has continuously evolved its designs to meet and exceed international environmental standards. The Saint-Malo is a testament to this dedication. It is equipped with a scalable PTI/PTO system, allowing for future upgrades to operate entirely on batteries or a combination of fuels.
The Saint-Malo is chartered to Brittany Ferries for ten years, with a purchase option after four years. This long-term commitment reflects the confidence in the vessel’s capabilities and the growing demand for sustainable travel options. Brittany Ferries is modernizing its fleet, and the Saint-Malo is a key player in this transformation.
The delivery of the Saint-Malo is part of a larger trend in the maritime industry. As environmental regulations tighten, companies are investing in greener technologies. The E-Flexer series is leading the charge, with 15 vessels ordered and eleven already delivered. Each ship represents a step toward a more sustainable future.
Brittany Ferries, founded by a cooperative of Breton farmers, has deep roots in the region. The company has evolved from transporting vegetables to becoming a major player in ferry travel. Today, it operates 14 routes connecting France, Great Britain, Spain, and Ireland. The Saint-Malo will enhance this network, offering passengers a modern and eco-friendly travel option.
The maritime industry is at a crossroads. The Saint-Malo embodies the shift toward sustainability. It’s not just a vessel; it’s a symbol of progress. As it prepares to sail into service, it carries with it the hopes of a greener future.
In conclusion, the Saint-Malo is more than a ferry. It is a floating testament to innovation, sustainability, and the spirit of adventure. As it embarks on its maiden voyage, it invites passengers to join in the journey toward a cleaner, more responsible way of traveling. The sea is vast, and the possibilities are endless. With vessels like the Saint-Malo, the future of ferry travel looks bright.