Port-Link Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

On January 28, 2019, the cargo vessel 'Port Link' faced challenging conditions while navigating the waters off Sulawesi, battling wave heights reaching 3 to 4 meters. During its voyage toward Bitung, the ship experienced instability resulting in two to four trucks on its deck toppling over. Fortunately, despite the tumultuous weather, the 'Port Link' successfully completed its journey, arriving safely at the Port of Bitung.

The Indonesian maritime landscape just got a significant upgrade as PT ASDP, the state-owned River and Lake Transportation Company, officially introduced the largest roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ferry in the nation, named KMP Port Link. This state-of-the-art vessel will serve as a vital link between Java and Sumatra, specifically operating routes from Merak in Banten to Bakauheni in Lampung. Measuring an impressive 123 meters in length, the KMP Port Link boasts an impressive capacity for 1,000 passengers, along with 309 cars and 62 trucks. It can cruise at a speed of up to 19 knots, approximately 36 kilometers per hour. Danang S. Baskoro, ASDP's president director, expressed his satisfaction with the ferry's launch after a series of trials that began on May 15. 'We are indeed relieved and grateful that KMP Port Link is now fully operational after navigating a long journey filled with challenges,' he stated. Originally constructed in Belfast, Northern Ireland, the KMP Port Link, previously known as the Stena Caledonia, served the route between Belfast and Stranraer before making its way to Indonesia. This new ferry is set to enhance transportation efficiency and connectivity in this vital region.

The ex-Stena Irish Sea ferry, known as STENA CALEDONIA, has recently undergone a significant transition. Currently docked at Harland and Wolff in Belfast, the vessel has officially been sold to ASDP Indonesia Ferry. Following the sale, she has been rebranded and now sails under the name PORT LINK, with her new registration based in Jakarta. This transformation marks a new chapter for the vessel, which continues its legacy in the maritime industry.