Aker launches Galaxy

The christening and launching ceremony of the large cruise ferry ordered by Tallink took place at Aker Yards shipyard in Rauma. The 165 million Euro vessel was named ?Galaxy? and will start cruises from Helsinki to Tallinn next spring.

The vessel will be one of the biggest cruise ferries in the Baltic Sea with a capacity for 2,800 passengers and 1,130 lane metres. The newbuilding is a multi-functional sea-based hotel with 927 cabins, several restaurants and places to entertain of various style and class as well as a conference centre with over 450 seats.

The vessel has a length of 212 metres, a beam of 29 metres and a gross tonnage of 48,300. Propulsion by four diesel engines totalling 26,240 kW will provide a service speed of 22 knots. Classification of the vessel is to the highest ice-class – 1 A Super. The catalytic reduction units to be installed for better control of exhaust emissions will make the vessel very environmentally friendly.

In addition to the cruise ferry launched today, Tallink has ordered a fast passenger day ferry from Aker Yards; and signed option agreements for both vessels.