Victoria of Wight, Wightlink’s new hybrid energy ferry for the Fishbourne-Portsmouth route, will be launched at the Cemre shipyard in Turkey on Wednesday (7th February).
Steelcutting at the shipyard began in November 2016 and final construction work will be completed following this week’s launch. The ship will then travel to home waters and will eventually enter service in the Summer.
After Victoria of Wight arrives in the Solent, Wightlink will embark on a programme to train 11 crews to make the most of the opportunities offered by the innovative hybrid battery technology to reduce noise and emissions before introducing her to the schedule.
Wightlink’s Chief Executive, Keith Greenfield, has said:
“This will be a proud day for Wightlink as it marks the culmination of our largest ever investment. We have spent £45million on our environmentally friendly new ship and improved port facilities on our lifeline route to the Isle of Wight.
Project Director, John Burrows adds:
“This will be a traditional launch with the vessel making its way down the slipway into the water so it will be quite a sight.
“We look forward to bringing Victoria of Wight home later this year and showing her off to our customers.”
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