Starlite Ferries welcomes newest Japan-made vessel MV Starlite Gratitude to Cebu
Written by: Nueva Anya Canoy
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CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Philippine maritime industry marks another milestone as Starlite Ferries Inc. officially welcomed its newest brand-new RORO Passenger (ROPAX) vessel, the MV Starlite Gratitude, following its successful conduction voyage from Japan.
The vessel, which recently docked in Cebu, was showcased in exclusive aerial photography by the Philippine Ship Spotters’ Society (PSSS). The arrival of the MV Starlite Gratitude signifies a major expansion for the shipping company as it continues to modernize its fleet with high-specification Japanese craftsmanship.
Technical Specifications and Power
Built by the renowned Kegoya Dock in Kure, Japan, the MV Starlite Gratitude is designed for efficiency and stability in Philippine waters. The vessel measures 67.60 meters in length and 15.30 meters in width, providing ample space for both passengers and rolling cargo.
Under the hood, the ship is powered by two Yanmar Marine Diesel Engines, allowing the vessel to maintain a design speed of 14 to 16 knots. This ensures timely travel between islands while maintaining the fuel efficiency standards expected of modern Japanese-built ships.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Vessel Name | MV Starlite Gratitude |
| Manufacturer | Kegoya Dock, Japan |
| Length | 67.60 Meters |
| Width | 15.30 Meters |
| Engine Type | 2x Yanmar Marine Diesel |
| Design Speed | 14-16 Knots |
Expanding the Visayas-Mindanao Network
The MV Starlite Gratitude is the sister ship of the MV Starlite Resilience, which entered service last year. According to Starlite Ferries, the new addition will soon be deployed to serve VisMin (Visayas-Mindanao) routes, though the specific ports of call are yet to be officially announced.
The deployment of this modern ROPAX vessel is expected to complement the current and future route offerings of Starlite Ferries, a subsidiary of Chelsea Logistics. By introducing brand-new vessels into the local shipping industry, the company aims to elevate the standard of inter-island travel in the Philippines, prioritizing safety, comfort, and reliability for Filipino travelers and logistics partners alike.
Industry observers and ship spotters have lauded the move, noting that the continuous influx of Japan-made vessels helps phase out older, second-hand tonnage in the Philippine maritime sector, ultimately benefiting the riding public.
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Anya has a deep love for travel and finds genuine joy in discovering new places. She becomes especially giddy when exploring nature, whether it’s visiting unfamiliar destinations, enjoying scenic landscapes, or simply experiencing the beauty of the outdoors. Like a true January Capricorn, she is driven, responsible, and determined in pursuing her goals. She carries herself with maturity and practicality, yet those close to her know her as loyal and quietly adventurous. While she may appear reserved at first, her curiosity about the world and passion for meaningful experiences continue to shape who she is.