The launch of the first 3,300 lane-metre ro-ro vessel under construction for Faroese shipowner Smyril Line has been completed at its Longkou construction base in China.

The vessel was successfully floated off a barge on 12 February and positioned in the harbour basin, marking a key milestone in the project. The operation began on 7 February when the ship entered the skidding phase and was mounted onto the barge later the same day, despite heavy snowfall.

Once weather conditions improved, the vessel was moved into the basin under the coordination of CIMC Raffles’ Marine Works Department, with several tugs involved in the towing operation.

According to the shipbuilder, the shipowner’s on-site manager commended the professionalism of the yard team and highlighted the cooperative approach between both companies in advancing the project.

CIMC Raffles secured the contract with Smyril Line in 2024 to construct two 3,300 lane-metre methanol-ready ro-ro vessels. The design was developed jointly by Smyril Line and the naval architecture firm Knud E. Hansen.

The vessels measure 189.5 metres in overall length and have been designed to meet methanol-ready standards. CIMC Raffles is acting as the main contractor for the project, responsible for both the design and construction of the ships, with deliveries of the two vessels scheduled during 2026.

After delivery, the vessels are expected to serve North Atlantic routes linking Europe with the Faroe Islands and Iceland.

The methanol-ready configuration allows the ships to be converted to operate on methanol in the future, supporting the maritime sector’s shift towards lower-carbon alternative fuels.