Stena Line has claimed that substantial investments made in its fleet recently will allow it to take ferry travel to "a new level" this year.
Just over two years ago, the company commenced construction of two 'superferries' at the Wismar shipyard in Germany and it will introduce the first of these on the Harwich to Hook of Holland ferry route in May.
The vessels - the second of which will be launched from Harwich ferry port in the autumn - are "groundbreaking" in their size, onboard environment, energy efficiency and loading capacity, according to Stena Line.
Gunnar Blomdahl, chief executive of the company, said the coming year will be "exceptionally exciting" and will bring an improvement in services for customers.
He added: "All routes will get new and improved vessels with more attractive restaurants, cabins, bars and other exciting experiences. The new vessels allow us to offer a wider range of services and better service in both of our business areas."
In addition to its route to Holland, Stena Line offers
ferries from Holyhead to Dublin and a Stranraer to Belfast ferry link, among other services.
Posted by Mark Robinson