Swedish shipping firm Stena Line is set to introduce its newest methanol-ready vessel, equipped with hybrid-battery propulsion, on the Belfast–Heysham route.

The 147 m Ro-Ro ship, Stena Futura, will begin service on Monday, offering 12 weekly sailings, Stena Line said in a statement on its website.

Together with a sister vessel, Stena Connecta, due in early 2026, the ships will deliver a 40% increase in freight space on the busy corridor.

“The two hybrid vessels which are equipped to operate on methanol fuel, will also play a key role in Stena Line’s sustainability journey, the firm said.

“They are further enhanced with built-in technologies that will be able to utilise both battery propulsion and shore power, when available.”