The northern ferry trades continue their steady consolidation as DFDS confirmed its intention to acquire the 2005-built Ro-Pax vessel Stena Vinga (IMO 9323699) from Stena Line, securing tonnage on the Jersey services linking the island with the UK and France.
The ferry carries passengers and freight, maintaining regular sailings across these short-sea routes, with a current capacity of up to 400 passengers, 200 cars, and wheeled cargo capacity ~1500 lanemetres. The ship has 40 cabins alongside standard passenger facilities such as a restaurant, retail space, cinema, and reclining lounge.
Upon transfer of ownership, the vessel is to be reflagged under the UK registry, with the transaction expected to generate around 70 positions, including opportunities for cadets and apprentices. Completion of the acquisition is scheduled for November 2026, after which the ship will remain deployed on the established Jersey–UK and Jersey–France rotations.
Within the company, it was indicated that the vessel had demonstrated consistent suitability for the route during her charter period and that her incorporation into the owned fleet represented a logical progression in strengthening operational continuity. It was further conveyed that the acquisition aligned with longer-term service commitments to Jersey, while maintaining a focus on dependable and comfortable passage for passengers and freight alike.