Dual-fuel ferry floated out in Finland

Viking Line says that the vessel will not only feature new green values but also a variety of technological innovations.

When completed, the vessel will measure 218m long. It will be delivered at the beginning of 2013, to operate on the Turku-Åland Islands-Stockholm route.

Jari Anttila, EVP and COO of STX Finland, and director of STX Turku Shipyard, said: “We are very pleased to be able to float out this magnificent cruise ferry according to plans. The project has progressed in good collaboration with the client and vendors. After this float out, the works will continue actively by final installation of the various systems of the ship and by interior outfitting. The ship will be ready for delivery to the customer at the beginning of next year.”

Viking Grace is powered by Wärtsilä dual fuel engines, and will normally operate on LNG. STX says that this means emissions into the sea are totally eliminated, and emissions into the air are significantly lower than those of other large passenger ships. Before the float-out, guests visited the dry dock floor to see the ship from below.

The ceremony was witnessed by representatives of Viking Line, STX Finland and Lloyd’s Register.