The ferry, with a length of 139.1 metres and a beam of 22 metres, would appear ideal for many routes. The ferry has been built with a capacity for 1,500 passengers, some 400+ cars and 609 lane metres of freight, and a cruise speed of 22 knots. The design allows for some 52 cabins. However, changes may be made, as the ferry will now enter the yard for completion and delivery within 14 months, ie December 2017.

Speculation as to what route Trasmediterranea have in mind for this new build, suggests that she is destined for Almeria - Melilla. The Public Services Contract which this route attracts, is up for renewal in May 2017, and is likely to be contested by Balearai and probably Armas, both of whom can offer modern, and in the case of BALEARIA's NISSOS CHIOS, very fast crossings. It would appear that Trasmediterranea would prefer to release the SOROLLA from this route, in order to operate out of Barcelona... but this remains to be seen.

© Shippax / Mike Barker