P&O Ferry Launched

P&O Ferry Launched

The Spirit of Britain was launched this week at STX Europe's Rauma shipyard in Finland. At the same time preparations began for the keel laying of the ship's sister vessel, Spirit of France. Test runs are expected to take place in early August followed by sea trials in mid October and delivery to P&O Ferries by December 2010. The Spirit of Britain will be the biggest ferry operating on the English Channel. The 49,000 gt vessel is 213 meters long with a capacity of 3,746 lane meters for trailers, cars and other cargo. In addition to space for approximately 180 freight trucks and 195 passenger cars, the vessel has capacity for 1750 passengers. The newest technology is being utilised in the design and construction of the vessels with special attention paid to environmentally friendly solutions and safety.