STENA NORDICA © Stena Line

STENA NORDICA to replace STENA EUROPE on the Fishguard – Rosslare route

FerryStena Line has confirmed its plans to secure the future stability of its Fishguard-Rosslare service by redeploying another ferry from its fleet. STENA NORDICA, which has been operating in the Baltic Sea, is a familiar ship on the Irish Sea having provided temporary relief cover on several Irish Sea routes over the last few years. It is scheduled to replace the older STENA EUROPE in July.

Stena Line will now commence a formal consultation with the unions representing the crew of STENA EUROPE, which has operated on the route since 2002. A commitment has been given to ensure they will all be offered roles on the STENA NORDICA or other Stena Line vessels on the Irish Sea.

Paul Grant, Trade Director (Irish Sea) said: “Over the last decade, Stena Line has invested heavily in its Irish Sea routes with a combination of new tonnage and a range of port facility upgrades. I’m pleased to announce that we have now managed to secure an upgraded vessel from within our fleet, which is fully equipped for the purpose of operating full-time on our popular Fishguard-Rosslare service.

“STENA EUROPE has operated on the route for many years, and we are delighted we have been able to secure the STENA NORDICA on a permanent basis. STENA NORDICA is currently being upgraded with increased passenger capacity and a range of new and improved facilities, which will offer an enhanced customer experience.”

Paul Grant concluded: “We are mindful that STENA EUROPE has been operating Fishguard – Rosslare for many years, so we will be doing our level best to ensure as smooth a transition as possible as we embark upon an exciting new chapter for the route.”

Stena Line also owns the port of Fishguard in Wales, where employees remain unaffected by today’s announcement.