Report and photographs from a crossing between Vlore, Albania and Brindisi, Italy in July 2024 © Ferry Voyager
Built in 1981 as the second of two new sisters for Sealink’s Flagship Service between Dover and Calais, the ST CHRISTOPHER went on to become the STENA ANTRIM sailing between Stranraer and Larne before sale to Limadet of Morocco and a second career serving from Tangier to Algeciras across the Gibraltar Straits. Later absorbed into COMANAV, their bankruptcy led to a period of dereliction before a lengthy rejuvenation to become the EUROPEAN STAR operating from Vlore, Albania to Brindisi, Italy.
Her interior has been much rebuilt over the years, but the most significant conversion occurred prior to her debut as EUROPEAN STAR, when she has effectively been transformed into an overnight ship with cabins added aft on the main passenger deck and throughout the upper passenger deck. Remarkably, her remaining passenger facilities have been furnished with fittings salvaged from the former HSS STENA DISCOVERY which had been scrapped in Aliaga, Turkey.
Passengers successfully navigating the rather tortuous customs and immigration processes between Italy and Albania will find a well-maintained vessel, with comfortable if limited facilities. Out of season, sailings typically operate overnight, whilst in summer months, a daytime return is offered several times each week. Crossing time is approximately 5-6 hours, slightly longer overnight.
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