Stena Line, the leading ferry company, spent £1.8 million in 2009 revamping its Stena Caledonia conventional ferry.
The Stena Line ship, which operates on the Stranraer-Belfast route, was given new features including a luxury Stena Plus lounge, a Barista coffee house/bar, a Curious George themed play area for kids and a new guest services desk.
Another major new feature is free Wi-Fi. Access to the wireless broadband is free of charge to passengers using their own laptop or PDA (personal digital assistant). The technology is supplied by satellite broadband to ensure uninterrupted coverage throughout the crossing. When passengers board they can simply ask for a Wi-Fi access card at guest services and then they can go online to work or play.
As part of the revamp, the restaurant on the vessel was refurbished and rebranded as Food City, while the decor and seating was upgraded and extra seating added to the ship's cinema. The onboard shop is spruced up as well and there is improved disabled/lift access from the car deck.
Paul Grant, route manager for the Stranraer-Belfast ferry, said the £1.8million project showed the company's ongoing commitment to the route. Mr Grant said: "The refurbished Caledonia is excellent alternative to our HSS fastcraft on the route. The Caledonia can travel between Scotland and Northern Ireland in under three hours and its new and improved facilities onboard will mean passengers can enjoy a relaxed journey in modern surroundings."
