Starlite Ferries Inc. has expanded its operational fleet following the successful maiden voyage of its newest roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) passenger vessel, the M/V Starlite Gratitude.
The vessel has officially commenced its regular route connecting the vital trading and tourism hubs of Cebu and Dapitan.
To commemorate the inaugural voyage, a special delegation consisting of representatives from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), and local media outlets boarded the vessel. Guests conducted a comprehensive inspection of the ship’s modern interior layouts, advanced safety features, onboard amenities, and premium passenger accommodations.
Built by the renowned Kegoya Dock in Japan, the M/V Starlite Gratitude was constructed under the strict international classification standards of ClassNK, ensuring the highest level of maritime safety and structural integrity. “The addition of the M/V Starlite Gratitude underscores our commitment to providing safe, reliable, and comfortable sea travel for the Filipino public, while simultaneously boosting trade and commerce between the Visayas and Mindanao regions.”
The newly fielded vessel boasts robust technical and operational capabilities designed to optimize efficiency and passenger comfort:
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Dimensions & Tonnage: The ship measures 67.60 meters in length overall (LOA) with a breadth of 15.30 meters. It carries a versatile deadweight capacity ranging between 724 and 845 tonnes.
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Propulsion & Speed: Powered by twin Yanmar diesel engines generating a combined output of 1,370 kilowatts, the vessel comfortably maintains a reliable service speed of 12 to 14 knots.
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Payload Capacity: Optimized for multi-modal transport, the vessel can accommodate up to 618 passengers, alongside 12 cargo trucks and 10 private vehicles per trip.
To cater to diverse traveler needs, the M/V Starlite Gratitude features four distinct passenger tiers, elevating the standard of regional sea travel:
| Accommodation Class | Features & Amenities |
| Business Class | Air-conditioned reclining seats equipped with ergonomic footrests and integrated seatbelts. |
| Tourist Class | Air-conditioned, comfortable bunk configurations ideal for overnight or longer transits. |
| Private & VIP Cabins | Premium, exclusive spaces designed for optimal privacy and added comfort. |
The M/V Starlite Gratitude is now officially in service. Passengers and cargo shippers can book their trips through official Starlite Ferries ticketing outlets and online booking platforms.
