Japanese ferry operator MOL Ferry, part of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), has taken delivery of newbuilding Sunflower Furano from compatriot shipbuilder Japan Marine United (JMU).
Following final checks, the new ferry is expected to start its first voyage on May 13, sailing from the Port of Oarai to the Port of Tomakomai, MOL said.
The 13,816 gross ton Sunflower Furano will replace an older ship having the same name which is currently in service.
The ferry, featuring a length of 199.7 meters and a width of 27.2 meters, is the first of two eco ships ordered from JMU by MOL in 2014.
The two ships will connect the country’s islands of Honshu and Hokkaido via the Oarai-Tomakomai route.
Both vessels will be able to accommodate 590 passengers, 160 large trucks and 100 cars.
The second ferry is scheduled to enter service in August 2017, the company’s data shows.
World Maritime News Staff