Discover the Saga: Ratings & Maritime News

On August 10, 2025, Bridgemans Services Group commenced a significant refurbishment of their newly acquired floatel, previously known as the 'Saga' and now rebranded as the 'Saga X'. The vessel has docked in Singapore as of October 4, gearing up for its journey to Canadian waters. Once it arrives, the 'Saga X' will complement the existing floatel, 'Isabelle X', stationed in Squamish, British Columbia, effectively doubling the accommodation capacity for workers involved in the construction of the groundbreaking net-zero LNG export facility. Post-refit, the 'Saga X' will present an array of modern comforts including newly designed single cabins, each featuring private ensuites, an upscale dining area, cozy lounges, and fully equipped meeting spaces. Guests can also enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, on-site offices, a first aid clinic, a cutting-edge fitness center, a café, and a sports lounge complete with arcade games and pool tables. In line with contemporary environmental standards, the floatel is equipped with state-of-the-art ecological systems, such as an ultraviolet water purification system. It has the capability to operate on shore-generated hydro power, features industrial-grade heat pumps, and incorporates advanced sewage treatment processes that utilize both ultrafiltration and a low-intensity UV unit for effective bacteria removal.

In the wake of the discontinuation of the ferry service linking Frederikshavn and Oslo, Stena Line is exploring a new role for the 'Stena Saga'. Laid up in Uddevalla since April 3, this ferry may soon be converted into a hospital ship capable of accommodating 520 patients. The closure, announced on March 19 due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, has been a significant change for the ferry, which had been operational since 1994. This decision came as a response to the sharp decline in passenger traffic and the anticipated challenges for the upcoming summer season. The company deemed it unfeasible to wait for a potential recovery in demand. Stena Roro, Stena Line's subsidiary, has taken over the vessel and is tasked with finding its next purpose. With a proven track record in the construction of medical vessels, exemplified by the ongoing development of 'Global Mercy' for Mercy Ships, Stena Roro is well-equipped to undertake this project. Their design expertise allows them to adapt the ship's ventilation system, install necessary alarm and communication systems, and modify the interior to meet hospital standards in as little as 2 to 3 weeks. This conversion plan includes separating crew areas from patient accommodations, ensuring a safe environment. While the intention is not to provide intensive care on board, the 'Stena Saga' could serve to alleviate pressure on hospitals by housing patients in need of post-operative care or those who do not require intensive monitoring. However, as of now, Stena Roro has yet to receive an official order to proceed with the ship's transformation.

In a significant shift for maritime travel, Stena Line has officially terminated its Frederikshavn-Oslo route after over four decades of service. The decision, stemming from the aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the anticipated loss of the 2023 summer season, has led to the unfortunate dismissal of 30 Norwegian employees. This route, which predominantly relied on passenger traffic, was crucial for the company during the busy summer months. Stena Line announced that it could not realistically wait for next season’s potential revival. The final journey of the Stena Saga occurred on March 14, with the vessel being laid up in Gothenburg shortly thereafter, at 7 a.m. on March 16.

In a dramatic turn of events on the evening of October 12, 2019, the ferry 'Stena Saga' played a crucial role in rescuing two distressed boaters in the outer Oslofjord. The brothers, Vidar Løkkemoen and his sibling, encountered a perilous situation while returning to Porsgrunn from Fredrikstad. Their recreational boat was overwhelmed by a sudden wave, causing their engine compartment to fill with water rapidly. The emergency arose around 11:15 p.m. when the Southern Norway Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) received a distress call from the stranded individuals. Noticing a vessel in trouble while en route from Oslo to Denmark, the crew of 'Stena Saga' wisely decided to turn back. Upon arrival, the ferry crew found that the boat was nearly submerged, with only about 20 centimeters of it above water. The two individuals were ultimately rescued by the lifeboat 'Horn Rescuer', which towed them safely back to Fredrikstad. The rescue operation took place amidst challenging conditions, with significant waves reaching heights of three to four meters, concluding around 2 a.m. For further details, you can view the report with photos here: https://www.vg.no/nyheter/innenriks/i/zGebQ4/to-berget-fra-forlis-i-ytre-oslofjord-fikk-hjelp-av-stena-saga.