Following regulatory approval by the Spanish and Moroccan competition authorities, DFDS has finalised an agreement with Naviera Armas to acquire the combined freight and passenger ferry, Volcán de Tamasite. The acquisition will add capacity to DFDS' existing Strait of Gibraltar network, and reflects continued demand for freight and passenger transport services and supports DFDS' ambition to further strengthen its position in the region.
"The Strait of Gibraltar is an important link for trade and travel, and we are looking forward to continuing to serve the region with additional capacity. This will provide greater flexibility and enhanced connectivity for both freight and passenger customers," says Michael Hansen, CEO of DFDS.
In addition to the ferry, DFDS will take over existing permits related to operations on the route. The vessel will join DFDS' existing fleet of two ferries operating in the Strait of Gibraltar.
"Adding a third vessel to our fleet strengthens our position in the Strait of Gibraltar and gives us greater flexibility to meet our customers' transport needs. It also enables us to further develop our operations and support growing demand in the years ahead," says Ronny Moriana Glindemann, Managing Director, Strait of Gibraltar, DFDS.
Volcán de Tamasite is familiar with the seas of the strait, having sailed on the same route for several years. It can carry up to 1,469 passengers and 1,414 lane meters of freight. It is expected to enter service with DFDS from Mid-November.
With more than 10.000 sailings annually, DFDS routes in the Strait of Gibraltar support both passenger and freight transport. Key cargo flows include fresh produce, automotive parts and components, textiles, and industrial and specialised goods.