---

AS Tallink Grupp and Meyer Turku Oy have signed a contract for the construction of an LNG-powered fast ferry for route shuttle operations between Tallinn and Helsinki.

According to a statement released today, the dual-fuel ship will be approximately 212 metres in length with a passenger capacity of 2800. It is to be built at Meyer Turku shipyard, with delivery scheduled for the beginning of 2017. The cost of the project is estimated at 230 million euros.

The new eco-friendly ship is to use LNG as its primary fuel, which will enable it to comply with new stricter emission regulations for vessels operating in Emission Control Areas (ECA).

"The ship, with a gross tonnage of 49,000 and service speed of 27 knots, will bring significant improvement in energy efficiency. The highly innovative hull form minimizes the flow resistance and ensures that the ship operates well in ice conditions. Efficient and fast cargo turnaround in ports has been taken into account in the design of the new generation fast ferry," the statement said.

According to the agreement, 20 percent of the total project cost will be paid during the construction period and the rest upon delivery of the vessel.

CEO of AS Tallink Grupp, Janek Stalmeister, said: "We have brought a new understanding to the fast ferry services with the Shuttle concept and now the time is right to take the next step. We have learned from our own experience, listened to our customers and experts and we are now very excited about the end result."

Jan Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku Oy, remarked: "Meyer Turku is very happy to continue the long and good tradition to build ferries for Tallink and with our new and advanced LNG propulsion plant we are lifting this partnership to the next technological level. With this contract we increase our output by 30% in 2016, which is good news for the shipyard and its suppliers and the entire region. It furthermore allows us to implement our strategy to further strengthen our capabilities by making the necessary recruits and by improving design and building methods."