WELLINGTON, New Zealand – StraitNZ Bluebridge has announced a significant expansion of its Cook Strait service, welcoming Stena Line's Stena Livia to its fleet starting this August. This addition will increase the company's vehicle capacity by 10 percent, enhancing the crucial link between New Zealand's North and South Islands.

Stena Livia, currently operating between Germany and Latvia, is a sister ship to Bluebridge's existing vessel, Connemara. Built in 2008 by Cantiere Navale Visentini in Italy, the vessel boasts impressive specifications, measuring 186.5 meters in length and 25.6 meters in beam, with a gross tonnage of 26,904 tonnes.

The ship offers substantial capacity, accommodating up to 880 passengers and 200 cars, along with 2,255 lane meters for freight. Powered by two MAN B&W 9L48/60B engines, Stena Livia can achieve a speed of 21.5 knots.

Before joining the Bluebridge fleet, Stena Livia will undergo a dry dock in Europe. It is expected to replace the Strait Feronia towards the end of the year, further modernizing and expanding Bluebridge's service.

StraitNZ Bluebridge has been a vital operator on the Cook Strait route since 1992, providing essential passenger and freight services between the islands. The introduction of Stena Livia marks a significant investment in the service, ensuring greater efficiency and capacity for travelers and businesses relying on this critical maritime connection.

This strategic move underscores StraitNZ Bluebridge’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for reliable and efficient transportation across the Cook Strait.