Larne to Troon vessel leaving for a new career in Scandinavia

Respected industry source Shippax information have published the news that the current Larne to Troon vessel HSC Express has been sold to a company called Nordic HSC, based in Sweden.  Current owners Buquebus had been looking for a buyer following P&O’s decision not to renew their long running charter for the craft.

It is intended that Express will operate between the island of Gotland and the Swedish mainland.  She will be delivered to the now owners next autumn, when she will undergo a refit and crew familiarisation prior to entering service in summer 2016.  It is intended that she will be registered in Sweden, and will employ Swedish officers.

Update:  It appears the new operator of Express will be Gotlandsbåten, who plan to operate her for 9 months of the year between Visby (Gotland) and Västervik (Swedish mainland).  Gotlandsbåten literally translates to Gotland Boat.  However, the operator has yet to secure a berth in Visby for the vessel.

Image credit: Express passing Ballylumford power station, Easter Monday 2015.  Copyright © Gary Andrews.