Brittany Ferries has announced the introduction of the Saint-Malo, a groundbreaking hybrid vessel that marks a new era for sustainable maritime shipping in Europe. This state-of-the-art ship combines liquefied natural gas (LNG), bio-LNG, and electric battery propulsion, setting a benchmark for the maritime industry. After its christening ceremony on January 31, 2025, the Saint-Malo will officially enter service on February 12, 2025, on the Saint-Malo to Portsmouth route.
Arrival in Santander After an Epic Voyage
The Saint-Malo, Brittany Ferries’ first hybrid vessel powered by an LNG-electric propulsion system, docked at the port of Santander, Spain, on the morning of Monday, December 2, 2024. The ship embarked on a remarkable journey after departing its shipyard on October 21, 2024. It navigated through the China Seas, crossed the Indian Ocean, rounded the Cape of Good Hope, and traversed the Atlantic Ocean to reach its first destination.
This arrival marks a significant milestone in Brittany Ferries’ efforts to introduce greener solutions to maritime transport, as the Saint-Malo becomes the company’s flagship for sustainable innovation.
Flagging Ceremony in Santander
On December 5, 2024, the Saint-Malo was officially registered under the French First Registry during a ceremony in Santander. Brittany Ferries Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Jean-Marc Roué, hosted a flag-raising event alongside the ship’s crew, attended by special top French and Spanish dignitaries.
Brittany Ferries Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Jean-Marc Roué emphasized the vessel’s importance, stating, “With stringent decarbonization targets set by Brussels, Brittany Ferries delivers Europe’s first major hybrid vessel capable of meeting these goals. Our dual LNG/electric propulsion system, transitioning to Bio-LNG/electric, ensures zero sulfur oxide and particulate emissions in the ports we serve. The Saint-Malo is a cornerstone in maritime decarbonization and a testament to our strong societal commitment.”
Key Features of the Saint-Malo
The Saint-Malo is a technological marvel designed to replace the Bretagne on the Saint-Malo to Portsmouth route. Its features include:
- Specifications:
- Length: 194.7 meters (43.5 meters longer than the Bretagne)
- Width: 27.8 meters
- Speed: 23 knots
- Engine Power: 13,740 kW each (two engines)
- Passenger Capacity: 1,290
- Cabin Enhancements:
- Total cabins: 386 (including 54 luxury cabins, an increase of 38 over the Bretagne)
- Accessibility: 8 cabins for passengers with reduced mobility
- Family-friendly: 5 cabins for large families
- Pet-friendly: 27 cabins for passengers traveling with pets, along with 12 kennel spaces
- Passenger Growth Potential:
- Increased nighttime crossing capacity by 200-300 passengers
- Potential annual growth of 35,000-40,000 passengers
- Estimated additional revenue: €5.5-6.2 million annually in onboard accommodations
- Freight Capabilities:
- Enhanced freight capacity: +23 trucks and +24 cars compared to the Bretagne
- Ability to transport up to 63 trucks (previously 37)
- Expanded garage space for taller vehicles such as caravans and RVs
Sustainability at the Core
The Saint-Malo exemplifies Brittany Ferries’ commitment to environmental responsibility. The hybrid vessel aligns with the company’s ongoing fleet renewal program, which includes the introduction of two LNG-powered ships and two hybrid LNG-electric vessels between 2023 and 2025. By pioneering these advancements, Brittany Ferries continues to lead the charge in decarbonizing maritime transport.
About Brittany Ferries
As a leading French maritime transport company and the largest employer of French sailors, Brittany Ferries plays a critical role in driving economic and tourism development in coastal regions across France, the UK, Ireland, and Spain. With a strong focus on environmental sustainability, the company operates a fleet of 12 vessels and is spearheading innovations to reduce maritime emissions, ensuring a greener future for shipping.
Source Brittany Ferries