New Ferry Set to Arrive in Wellington Harbour
Bluebridge’s latest vessel increases passenger and vehicle capacity.
A new ferry for Cook Strait is scheduled to arrive in Wellington on Thursday, marking a significant upgrade to the Bluebridge fleet; the public is invited to view its arrival from Oriental Bay.
Arrival Details
The Livia is expected to dock in the capital at approximately 8 a.m., according to Bluebridge’s Facebook post. The vessel’s journey included sailing from Europe, transiting the Panama Canal, and finally making its way to New Zealand after a dry dock in Denmark.
Replacement of Existing Vessel
The Livia will replace the Strait Feronia, which has been in service since 1997. The company’s purchase of the new vessel was first announced in March.
Capacity Boost
Shane McMahon, StraitNZ chief executive, stated the company was familiar with this type of vessel and confident in its suitability for Cook Strait. McMahon “the new ship would provide a 10 percent increase in vehicle capacity and increase Bluebridge passenger capacity significantly with further alterations.”
Prior to this, the Livia operated between Germany and Latvia for Stena Line beginning in 2008.
Public Viewing Opportunity
Bluebridge has extended an invitation to the public to witness the Livia’s arrival from Oriental Bay. Attendees will receive complimentary coffee in a Bluebridge keep cup, chocolate fish, and the chance to win a free return trip on the ferry. Tugs will escort the Livia into Wellington harbour.
The global ferry industry is seeing increased investment in newer, larger vessels; for example, in 2023, the worldwide ferry market reached a value of $21.9 billion, and is projected to hit $29.6 billion by 2033 (Future Market Insights).
