MV Galicia, Brittany Ferries’ newest vessel, passes Plymouth trials

Continuing its trials, Galicia has moved from Portsmouth (as reported in MIN) to Plymouth.

Measuring 215m, she will be one of Brittany Ferries’ largest vessels, and therefore trials at Plymouth were conducted in close cooperation with Cattewater Harbour Commission and Brittany Ferries when she arrived at the port on Wednesday. These trials were successful, and she docked safely and efficiently.

“It was very satisfying for all of us at Brittany Ferries in Plymouth to welcome our brand-new ship Galicia to Millbay Docks. The berthing trials went perfectly, proving the ship can operate from Plymouth if needed,” says Steve Lawrie, port operations manager at Brittany Ferries.

“Galicia’s arrival at Plymouth will help free our Brittany Ferries’ flagship Pont-Aven, offering an additional weekly round trip from Plymouth to Santander, starting in March 2021. This will double the frequency and capacity on that route, so it is great news for the city of Plymouth and our customers who like using the port.”

With the success of the trials at Plymouth, it means Galicia’s sister ships, Salamanca and Santona – arriving in 2022 and 2023 respectively – can operate safely from Plymouth as well.

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Associated British Ports says it has been working with Brittany Ferries to ensure it offers flexibility to respond to the changing needs of operations as the fleet is modernised.