Naval architecture firm Deltamarin has secured a major contract with China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Weihai) to provide basic and detail design for six new RoPax Ferries ordered by the Grimaldi Group. The “Next Generation Med” class RoPax Ferrries will serve Grimaldi’s Mediterranean network, operating under both Grimaldi Lines and Minoan Lines brands.
Of the six RoPax Ferries, four will sail under the Italian flag and be operated under the Grimaldi Lines brand, while two will be registered under the Greek flag and operated by Grimaldi’s subsidiary Minoan Lines. All six ships are set to elevate maritime transport in the Mediterranean through a unique combination of high freight and passenger capacity, next-generation environmental performance, and enhanced onboard experience.
Each 229-meter vessel will feature 3,300 lane meters for rolling freight, space for over 300 passenger vehicles, and capacity for up to 2,500 passengers. Accommodation includes more than 300 cabins for over 1,200 guests.
The RoPax Ferries will be powered by engines capable of running on methanol—making them the first ships in the Mediterranean designed specifically for this alternative fuel. Additional green technologies include e.g. shore power readiness, silicon-based hull coatings, optimized hull and propeller designs, and advanced onboard power management systems. These features will collectively reduce CO₂ emissions per cargo unit by more than 50% compared to current vessels operating on similar routes.
The design work will begin at Deltamarin immediately with vessel deliveries scheduled between 2028 and 2030.
