Sweden-based ferry operator Stena Line will invest approximately £14 million (€16.6 million) upgrading its Irish Sea fleet, with improvements to cabins, pet-friendly options and family entertainment areas across 11 ferries, according to reporting in the Belfast Telegraph.

Passengers sailing from Belfast to Cairnryan, Birkenhead and Heysham can expect updated ferries in the near future, with upgrades to Stena Plus lounges also planned across the Irish Sea fleet. Stena Line operates three routes from Belfast, along with two routes from Dublin and one from Rosslare to Fishguard.

The company stated its Irish Sea operations remain a vital link for both leisure and freight customers, connecting Ireland and Great Britain with reliable, comfortable, and efficient crossings.

Fleet Manager for Irish Sea Mark Scouler stated: "This investment demonstrates our dedication to delivering the highest standards of safety, efficiency, comfort and reliability for our customers. By upgrading and modernising our vessels, we ensure that Stena Line remains the leader in the Irish Sea freight and travel market."

Scouler added: "We continually seek to invest in our vessels and provide a premium sustainable service for all our customers."

Commercial Travel Manager Orla Noonan stated: "This investment reflects our commitment to continuously improving the onboard experience for our customers. By acting on feedback, we have delivered a range of enhancements from upgraded family entertainment and contemporary lounge spaces to expanded pet facilities."

Noonan noted: "We are passionate about delivering an excellent travel experience and this substantial programme of work allows us to meet and exceed our customers' expectations."

The £14 million investment supports passenger experience improvements whilst maintaining freight capacity across routes serving Irish and British markets. and agricultural sectors alongside tourism and passenger travel between Ireland and Britain.

Read the complete report of Stena Line's £14 million Irish Sea ferry fleet upgrade programme.