SAINT-MALO was the first of two new hybrid ferries ordered by Brittany Ferries to Stena, the second being the GUILLAUME DE NORMANDIE. Part a massive fleet investment, both new ships were conceived to reduce fleet emissions, they are commonly referred to as "Greener ships", more environmentally-friendly. Based on the E-Flexer platform, E-Flexers are passenger and vehicle RoPax ferries designed to be economic, efficient and flexible. These passenger ships have a unique hull shape, the bow reduces resistance around the thruster openings and the stern was designed to reduce wave making. They are extremely good seakeeping, very comfortable negotiating high seas. SAINT-MALO compared to the previous ships on this class has an extra passenger deck, she is more passenger orientated offering a total of 387 cabins. SAINT-MALO and her near sister, the GUILLAUME DE NORMANDIE are shorter in length by 20 meters, making them more attractive then the previous ships of the class. Back in January of this year, I was part of a group of 500 invited passengers to first experience the brand new ship. SAINT-MALO is the ship replacing the much loved BRETAGNE on the Brittany Ferries route, Portsmouth to Saint-Malo. SAINT-MALO is a ship born a legend, she has inherited the famous "Bretagne Soul". Brittany Ferries was tireless to customise the new ship to their well known standards, not an easy task on chartered tonnage. The moment passengers step on board can fully appreciate the effort to bring back the Company's DNA. More than 300 artworks were introduced on board BRETAGNE, the work of Scottish artist Alexander Goudie, many of these art works are now on display on board the SAINT-MALO. Two more trips followed recently on the ship, she is a worthy successor to the BRETAGNE and soon will become another passenger and firm favourite. Images above, my first views of the SAINT-MALO at Portsmouth, 25th January 2025.
Vitor Francisco V
No comments:
Post a Comment