The shipping company Fred Olsen Express will incorporate a new mini-ferry into its fleet in April 2024, with the option of a second twin, which will be used to transport passengers without vehicles on routes focused on excursion tourism between the islands, after an investment of 3.5 million euros.
The new vessel, with capacity for 50 travelers, oriented to excursion tourism, will reinforce this type of service, which already exists on two of its maritime lines; between Playa Blanca, in Lanzarote, and Corralejo, in Fuerteventura, as well as on the coastal route of La Gomera, which connects the southern towns of Valle Gran Rey, Playa Santiago and San Sebastián.
According to a statement, the manufacturing, which will last 10 months and will begin during this month of May, has been commissioned to the Rodman shipyard, located in Vigo.
For the fleet director of Fred Olsen Express, Juan Ignacio Liaño, "this newly built ship is the result of our firm commitment to offer Fred Olsen Express passengers the best experience on all their trips, with the comfort and quality that characterize us."
The company has decided to invest in the manufacture of this new mini-ferry to meet the growing demand of tourists, both Canary Island residents and non-residents, who decide to take day trips to the nearest islands during their visit.
For Liaño, "with this investment, the company reaffirms its intention to remain at the forefront of the sector, promoting the tourist, economic and social revitalization of Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and La Gomera, allowing us the possibility of considering new routes to incorporate this type of service."
The new vessels, which will be of the Rodman R80 model, will have two Caterpillar C32 engines, with 1081 KW of power and a maximum speed of 20 knots, similar to those of the shipping company's mini-ferry "Benchi Express", which already operated for several months on the route between Playa Blanca and Corralejo with "excellent results", the note states.
In addition, they will have an interior and exterior deck, which is very popular among the tourist public, as well as a cafeteria and on-board entertainment.
