Finnlines Expands Rosslare–Belgium Freight Service with Second Vessel

Finnlines is expanding its freight service between Rosslare Europort and Zeebrügge in Belgium by adding a second ro-ro vessel to the route, significantly boosting capacity and increasing weekly sailings between Ireland and mainland Europe.

The company confirmed that M/s Lismore will join M/s Finnwave on the service from week 22, with its first departure from Zeebrügge scheduled for May 28th.

The move comes in response to growing demand for direct freight connections between Ireland and continental Europe. Finnlines said the enhanced schedule will improve flexibility, reliability and cargo capacity for customers using the route.

The Rosslare–Zeebrügge service has become an increasingly important trade link for Irish industry, offering onward connections through Belgium to Finland, Poland, Spain, the UK and the wider Grimaldi Group network.

Umberto Raimo, Deputy Line Manager at Finnlines, said demand on the route has been “steadily increasing” and that the additional vessel would provide “greater capacity and flexibility” for both Irish and European markets.

Finnlines Traffic Manager Juha Anjala said the expansion was made possible through close cooperation with terminals in Rosslare and Zeebrügge, alongside support from customers.

Rosslare Europort also welcomed the announcement, describing it as another major vote of confidence in the port’s strategic role.

Glenn Carr of Iarnród Éireann said the development further strengthens Rosslare Europort’s status as “Ireland’s Gateway to Europe”, while General Manager Philip O’Brien said the addition of a second vessel reflects “strong and growing demand” for direct European connections.

M/s Lismore can carry more than 4,000 lane metres of cargo, with both vessels capable of transporting around 260 trailers and up to 12 drivers.

The revised schedule will increase weekly departures between Rosslare and Zeebrügge to three sailings in each direction.