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Finnlines is expanding its freight service between Rosslare in Ireland and Zeebrugge in Belgium by deploying a second Ro-Ro vessel on this route. This measure aims to provide customers with increased capacity and more frequent departures between Ireland and the European mainland.
To meet the growing demand, the new vessel, the *M/s Lismore*, will commence operations in calendar week 22, specifically on May 28, and will complement the existing *M/s Finnwave* on the route. The improved schedule will significantly enhance freight capacity on the direct connection between Ireland and continental Europe.
Finnlines‘ freight service between Rosslare and Zeebrugge has proven to be very successful and represents an important trade link for the Irish industry. Through the hub in Zeebrugge, the service also connects Ireland with Finland, Poland, the United Kingdom, Spain, and the broader network of the Grimaldi Group.
The *M/s Lismore* will be operated under a charter agreement and will augment Finnlines‘ existing fleet on this route. The addition of the vessel enables Finnlines to respond quickly to the rising market demand while also increasing the reliability of the service and the flexibility of the schedule for customers.
„We have observed a steadily increasing demand on our Ireland-Belgium service and are pleased to offer our customers greater capacity and flexibility. By adding a second ship and increasing the frequency, we are strengthening our service for both the Irish and European markets,“ explains Umberto Raimo, Deputy Line Manager at Finnlines.
Juha Anjala, Traffic Manager at Finnlines, adds: „This development has been made possible through close cooperation with the terminals in Rosslare and Zeebrugge, as well as the support of our customers. The efficiency of our operations will certainly also impact our third call at each port.“
Glenn Carr, Director of Business Units for Iarnród Eireann, the port authority for Rosslare Europort, emphasizes: „The expansion of the Finnlines service from Rosslare to Zeebrugge further strengthens the status of Rosslare Europort as Ireland’s gateway to Europe and the strong partnership we maintain with Finnlines. Ongoing investments in the port will ensure that we continue to attract new services and operators, benefiting the supply chains to and from Ireland.“
Philip O’Brien, Managing Director of Rosslare Europort, also expresses positive sentiments: „I am pleased with the expansion of the Finnlines service from Rosslare to Zeebrugge. The introduction of a second ship reflects the strong and growing demand for direct connections between Rosslare and the European mainland. We thank Finnlines for their continued trust in Rosslare Europort and are proud to support this important improvement in capacity and frequency on a strategically important route.“
Stewart Hayes, Fleet Manager of P&O Ferries, adds: „We are pleased to work with Finnlines on this weekend charter, which allows us to maximize the utilization of the *M/s Lismore* while maintaining our core schedule on weekdays. It is a flexible arrangement that benefits both companies and our customers.“
The *M/s Lismore* has a freight capacity of 4,076 linear meters, while the *M/s Finnwave* offers 4,192 linear meters. Both vessels can carry approximately 260 trailers and accommodate up to 12 drivers.
Finnlines specializes in freight transport and provides the European industry with regular and reliable maritime connections. The company also plays a crucial role in ensuring the supply of essential goods in Europe.
