Balearia completes investment programme

Spanish ferry operator Balearia has taken delivery of the fourth vessel in an environmentally friendly series of ropax ships built by the HJ Barreras shipyard, which has involved an estimated total investment of more than €350 million. The BV-classed, 5300 dwt Abel Matutes is 190m long, has a 26m beam and has capacity for 900 persons onboard. It also has deck space for 2235 linear meters of road trailers and 1835m of cars.

Like the three earlier vessels in the series, a key aim of the design has been the optimisation of energy consumption. The design of the two 9000kW main engines reduces emissions, and the propulsion package onboard includes two electric controllable pitch transverse propellers, each rated at 1000kW. The service speed is 22 knots. Passenger comfort has been enhanced through the fitting of hydraulic stabilisers with retractable wings, HJ Barreras points out.

Great attention has been given to ensuring an interior design of high quality. Abel Matutes has spacious exterior terraces on which passengers can enjoy the crossing between Spain’s mainland and the Balearic islands in comfort. There are 74 quadruple and two double cabins, all on deck eight, and passengers can use self-service restaurants, a video games room, a first class lounge and an onboard phone system. All of the cabins have music and TV facilities. PST