The Mn-Pelican: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In an impressive turnaround, the ex-MN Pelican, a vessel previously owned by the French Maritime company, has been rebranded to Link Neptune just days after its acquisition by a Norwegian consortium. The necessary repainting to reflect the new name was completed over the weekend in Le Havre, immediately after the sale was finalized. This ship made its way to port on January 21, arriving from Bilbao. For further details, including exclusive photographs, visit: https://www.meretmarine.com/fr/marine-marchande/l-ex-mn-pelican-a-change-de-nom-et-repart-en-mer.

In a significant maritime transaction, Norwest Ship Management has successfully purchased the 'MN Pelican' from Compagnie Maritime Nantaise - MN. The official signing of the sale contract took place on January 21, 2026, in Le Havre, where representatives from both companies, along with the vessel itself, were present. Originally known as the 'Trans Botnia', the 'MN Pelican' was constructed at the renowned Fosen shipyard in Norway back in 1999. Since 2007, the ferry has been under the ownership of Compagnie Maritime Nantaise - MN. During her tenure, she served as a charter vessel for the French Ministry of Defence from 2007 to 2016, undertaking missions worldwide. Following this, she was utilized by Brittany Ferries (BAI) for conventional freight operations between Poole and Bilbao from 2016 until 2025.

Brittany Ferries has announced an extension of the charter for the freight ro-ro vessel MN PELICAN, securing its services for an additional two-year period. This decision underscores Brittany Ferries' commitment to enhancing its freight services and meeting the demands of its clientele.

In a noteworthy maritime rescue operation on February 23, 2016, at 12:57 AM, the CROSS Etel was alerted by the Maritime Medical Consultation Centre regarding an injured crew member aboard the 'MN Pelican,' who had sustained a hand injury. Following an urgent consultation, a decision was reached to conduct a helicopter medevac to ensure prompt medical attention at La Cavale Blanche hospital in Brest. At that time, the vessel was approximately 63 nautical miles southwest of the Penmarc'h coastline. A Cayman helicopter, equipped with a medical team, took off from the naval air base at Lanvéoc Poulmic on the morning of February 24. By 3:00 AM, the helicopter had successfully reached the scene. The medical team was swiftly hoisted onto the 'MN Pelican,' and shortly afterward, at 3:44 AM, both the injured crew member and the medical personnel were winched back aboard the helicopter. They arrived at La Cavale Blanche hospital at 4:10 AM, ensuring that the injured sailor received the necessary care without delay.

In an exciting development for the maritime industry, Brittany Ferries' latest freight vessel, the MN Pelican, has officially embarked on its inaugural journey from Poole Harbour. This impressive 155-meter-long ship departed for the Spanish port of Bilbao over the weekend, transporting a total of 72 trailers and six lorries. Chartering the Pelican from Maritime Nantaise, a reputable shipping company, Brittany Ferries aims to enhance freight operations at Poole Harbour, a vital hub for maritime logistics. The MN Pelican, registered in France, boasts a significant capacity, accommodating approximately 100 unoccupied trailers. Simon Wagstaff, the freight director at Brittany Ferries, emphasized the ongoing growth in freight activity between the UK and Spain, particularly in the unoccupied freight sector. "We observe this daily in our cargo decks, especially on routes to Spain," he stated. Wagstaff further explained that the addition of the Pelican to their fleet will not only meet the rising demands of freight customers but also optimize space aboard other vessels for accompanied freight and holiday travelers. This strategic move is expected to increase the operational efficiency of Brittany Ferries significantly, paving the way for continued success in the freight market.