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A new Ro-Pax ferry ordered by Spanish transport company Balearia has begun conducting sea trials.
Magarita Salas was built by local shipyard Armon as the second vessel in a series that also includes the 2021-built Eleanor Roosevelt. The two vessels have the same general layout, though the newer ferry has a second passenger deck with a saloon as well as larger aft terrace space.
The ferry has capacity for 1,200 passengers and 450 vehicles and is powered by four 9,600kW dual-fuel engines that can run on either diesel or LNG. The engines drive azimuthing waterjets to provide enhanced manoeuvrability and deliver a cruising speed of 35 knots.
The LNG fuel is kept in two tanks. The ferry can sail up to 1,900 nautical miles in gas-diesel mode and 400 nautical miles in LNG mode.
The vessel also boasts a stabilisation system that reduces movement and improves comfort, technological innovations to minimise vibrations and noise, and a shore power connection.
Margarita Salas will connect the port of Barcelona with the islands of Mallorca and Menorca in the Balearics following its delivery before the end of June 2024.
