Finnish ship design consultancy, Deltamarin has signed a contract with China Merchants Weihai Shipyard for the design and engineering of Finnlines’ new ‘Hansa Superstar’ class ropaxes.
The work will include the complete basic and detail design of three ropaxes to be built for Finnlines for Baltic Sea operations.
This contract continues the successful collaboration between Deltamarin, Finnlines and Weihai shipyard, following the completion of the concept and contract design for the vessels earlier this year.
Work on the basic design project is due to start immediately, with the majority of the work scheduled to be completed by early 2026.
The design will be an evolution of the ‘Superstar-class’ vessels, but with enhanced quality of transport for both rolling cargo and passengers in the Baltic.
It has been adapted for the Finland/Germany route and the ships will be better suited for longer crossings, feature new cabin categories and provide restaurant options, tailored to different passenger preferences, with a strong focus on the overall on board experience.
These vessels will combine high transport capacity, innovative design, and superior on board comfort, Deltamarin said.
Key features include multi-fuel engines, optimised hull and propeller designs, shore power connection, and energy-efficient on board power management systems while at sea and in port—all contributing to over a 50% reduction in CO₂ emissions per transported cargo unit, compared to vessels currently operating on the same routes.
Each 240 m vessel will offer 5,100 lane m of cargo space for rolling freight, capacity for 90 cars, and accommodation for up to 1,100 pax across 320 cabins.
Designed for sustainability, each vessel will be equipped with engines capable of running on methanol, supporting the goal of achieving net zero emissions. The vessels are scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2029.
“Together with Deltamarin, we have developed ‘Superstar-class’ vessels, setting a completely new standard for freight and passenger traffic in the Baltic Sea.
“With our new investment programme, we are proud to continue this shared journey. Our longstanding and successful partnership with Deltamarin and China Merchants Weihai Shipyard have been instrumental in driving innovation and strengthening efficient maritime transport,” said Juha Ahia, Finnlines’ Manager of Newbuilding & Projects.
“The signed contract marks the continuation of a longstanding partnership between Deltamarin and Weihai Shipyard. Our partnership has continually delivered reliable, efficient and environmentally conscious vessels that meet the expectations of both the vessel owner and regulators.
“This order demonstrates the trust our clients place in our ability to design and deliver state-of-the-art ropax vessels. With this latest order, the total number of ropaxes designed by Deltamarin and built by Weihai Shipyard reaches an impressive 22 ships during the last 10 years,” added Janne Uotila, Deltamarin Managing Director.
Ou Shubo, Deputy General Manager at Weihai Shipyard, commented: “The expertise and support Deltamarin provides have always been invaluable, and we look forward to delivering these next-generation vessels to Finnlines, which will play a key role in their sustainable fleet expansion.”
In addition, Danish rival, Knud e Hansen has announced on social media that its Interior Design Department has been selected to lead the interior and exterior design for four of Grimaldi Lines´s latest ropax orders.
This will blend heritage style, comfort, and functionality on board the vessels.
From lounges and cabins to crew spaces, the company’s designers are ready to bring fresh ideas to life at sea.
Knud e Hansen said that updates will be provided, as the project materialises.
