Stena Line names methanol-ready, hybrid freight ferry at Belfast Harbour

Stena Line on Friday (21 November) said a naming ceremony was held for Stena Line’s newest vessel, Stena Futura, at Belfast Harbour. 

The hybrid freight ferry marked a significant milestone in Stena Line’s 30-year partnership with Belfast and its ambitious journey toward sustainable shipping. 

The 147-metre Stena Futura is the first of two next-generation “NewMax” freight vessels purpose-built for the busy Belfast–Heysham route. The ship is methanol-ready and equipped with hybrid propulsion systems, including battery capability and shore power connectivity. These innovations will help Stena Line achieve its goal of reducing CO₂ emissions by 30% by 2030.

The ceremony also marked the key milestone for the company, celebrating 30 years of Stena Line operations in Belfast since moving their services to the city in 1995.

Stena Line CEO Niclas Mårtensson, said: “The naming of Stena Futura is a proud moment for Stena Line and Belfast Harbour. This vessel along with sister ship Stena Connecta represents over GBP 100 million investment in our Irish Sea network and clearly demonstrates our ongoing commitment to meeting growing freight demand, while leading the way in sustainable shipping.”

Joe O’Neil, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour, said: “The new vessel is already proving successful on the Belfast–Heysham route, and we can see significant potential for further growth in freight volumes when Stena Connecta enters service next year.

Together with its sister vessel Stena Connecta, due to enter service in early 2026, Stena Futura will boost freight capacity on the Belfast–Heysham route by 40%, supporting hauliers and exporters with more efficient and environmentally responsible transport solutions.

Photo credit: Stena Line
Published: 25 November, 2025