Stena Line celebrates naming of methanol-ready Stena Futura

Photo: Stena Line

Northern Ireland’s Belfast Harbour today hosted its first ship naming ceremony in two decades when Stena Line officially named its newest vessel Stena Futura.

Delivered in September, the 147-meter Stena Futura is the first of two next-generation NewMax freight vessels purpose-built for the busy Belfast–Heysham route. Designed with cutting-edge technology, 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 naming ceremony was carried out by the ship’s Godmother, Dr Madeleine Olsson Ericksson, a member of the Olsson family, owners of Stena Line, and guests included Deputy Lieutenant of the Borough of Belfast, Dr Philip McGarry, Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly and Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners.

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

Speaking at the event, 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 £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.”

Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly said: “Stena Line has been part of the fabric of the Northern Ireland economy for decades, connecting people, goods, and opportunities between Northern Ireland, GB and beyond.

“This investment of over £100 million is a testament to Stena’s belief in our potential and confidence in our region. This is a proud moment for our maritime sector, and for Northern Ireland. I thank Stena Line for its continued commitment, and I wish Stena Futura and sister ship Stena Connecta safe and successful voyages ahead.”

Key features

• Length: 147 meters, Beam: 26.3 meters
• Freight capacity: 2,800 lane meters – an 80% increase on current capacity
• Propulsion: Dual-fuel methanol hybrid with 9 MWh battery capacity
• 12 weekly sailings on the Belfast–Heysham route
• Future-proofed for wind-assist technology and shore power integration

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%.