Ferry Resumes Service After Maintenance Period
The Lobo Marinho ferry is set to return to service next Wednesday, resuming its trips between Funchal and Porto Santo after being out of operation for over a month due to scheduled maintenance. The ferry underwent extensive upgrades aimed at reducing its environmental impact.
A Costly but Necessary Overhaul
The Porto Santo Line, which operates the vessel, confirmed that the maintenance work in Viana do Castelo cost €5.3 million. While routine maintenance is common, this time the ship received significant structural and energy system improvements to support a more sustainable operation.
This is a pioneering project, as the Lobo Marinho will be the first ship in Portugal with a shore power connection, allowing it to use electricity from land. In addition to this structural modification, the ship will also be prepared to operate with biofuels.
Carlos Perdigão, Administration Porto Santo Line
A First in Portugal: Shore Power Connection
One of the major changes is the installation of a shore power connection, allowing the ferry to use electricity from land while docked. This development makes Lobo Marinho the first ship in Portugal with this capability. The goal is to cut down fuel use and reduce air pollution while the vessel is at port.
Prepared for a Greener Future With Biofuels
In addition to the shore power system, the ferry has been upgraded to support biofuels, offering another way to lower its carbon footprint. According to Carlos Perdigão, an executive at Porto Santo Line, these modifications are part of a larger effort to modernize the fleet while reducing environmental impact. The company aims to continue investing in cleaner, more efficient energy sources for its operations.
Source: Diário de NotÃcias da Madeira
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