Express-5 Vessel Reviews and Specifications

On August 13, the ferry 'Express 5' encountered engine issues that have persisted as of August 15, leading to a slower-than-normal sailing speed due to only three out of four engines functioning. Experts from Wärtsila, the engine manufacturer, have conducted an inspection of the vessel and are currently in the process of replacing the damaged pump. Additionally, an internal engine cleaning has been scheduled and is expected to be completed today. As a result, the ferry 'Express 5' is anticipated to be back to full operational capacity by the morning of August 16.

The 'Express 5' ferry is set to resume its route on the afternoon of December 17, 2023, just in time for the holiday traffic. An internal investigation has revealed that a human error was responsible for the incident on November 25, when the ferry collided with the port facility during its final double trip of the day. As a result, the 'Express 5' had to return to Rønne, disembarking its passengers unexpectedly. In the interim, the 'Express 1' has been fulfilling the ferry service on this route, ensuring continued travel for passengers.

The ferry 'Express 5' is scheduled to depart from the Fayard Yard on December 16, following the successful completion of its repair work. It is anticipated that the vessel will approach the port in Rønne around midnight that evening. Preparations will begin in the afternoon of the same day for the ferry to resume its operations. Most of the welding repairs have been finalized, allowing the yard to commence other essential tasks. One critical task involves repainting the ferry, including its hull. This specialized silicone paint plays a pivotal role in enhancing the ship's hydrodynamic efficiency and lowering fuel consumption. The application requires precise conditions, focusing on dry weather and the right temperature. The hull painting process is meticulous, involving multiple layers and extended drying phases to ensure optimal results.

On November 30, 2023, the 'Express 5' docked at the Fayard Yard in Munkerbo/Odense for extensive repairs, where it has remained immobile as of December 4, with no updates on the completion timeline. While work on the 'Express 5' continues, the 'Express 1' is currently operating as the primary ferry servicing the route. In a recent development, the Bornholm line's internal investigation revealed that human error was the root cause of the allision with Flis Quay that occurred during the ferry's departure from Rønne on the evening of November 25. The incident resulted in significant damage to the ferry after it made forceful contact with the pier. The investigation confirmed that no technical failures contributed to the mishap, and with weather conditions being reported as normal at the time, the event has been classified as human error in the accident report submitted to the Danish Maritime Authority.