Strandferðslan seeks backup ship for Suðuroy route

Faroese ferry operator Strandferðslan is looking for a backup ship to maintain the route serving Suðuroy when the ferry Smyril is in dry dock, Kringvarp Føroya reports. Suitable vessels are proving very difficult to find on the market.

Smyril is more than 20 years old and is due to return to dry dock in two years. All four of its main engines are expected to be replaced, a process that could keep the ferry out of service for up to three months.

Strandferðslan director Dánjal Samuelsen said the operator was therefore seeking a more permanent solution.

Smyril was specially built for the Suðuroy route, and Strandferðslan says no other vessel currently on the market has the same characteristics. Ships operating in the Faroe Islands must also meet strict requirements.

Strandferðslan has highlighted the difficulty of finding a suitable replacement vessel for several years. Samuelsen said he remained optimistic that a solution would be found.

The future of the route is also linked to the political decision on the Suðuroy tunnel. If the tunnel is not built and Smyril is required to operate the route for many more years, Strandferðslan believes preparations should begin for a new ferry.