THE pandemic has temporarily put travel and tourism on hold. However, for a country like the Philippines -- with it being an archipelago composed of thousands of islands -- a reliable and quality means of transportation is an essential matter.
With this in mind, Trans-Asia Shipping Lines—owned and operated by Chelsea Logistics and Infrastructure Holdings Corp.—is unveiling its latest flagship vessel, MV Trans-Asia 21 (MV TA21), on July 17 in Cebu City. This move is in line with Chelsea Logistics’ mission of providing Filipinos with a fleet of modern, clean and superior quality ships.
“The Philippines, being an archipelagic country, composed of 7,641 islands, is largely dependent on shipping to move people, goods and services across the globe. We are certain that the shipping and logistics industry will recover faster because it is essential and a necessity in global trade,” said Chryss Alfonsus V. Damuy, Chelsea Logistics president and chief executive officer.
The new MV TA21 is a ropax built in Japan (a ropax is a vessel for freight vehicle transport with passenger accommodation). It is the company’s 15th vessel, and can carry up to 1,051 passengers. When it comes to cargo, the ship can accommodate container vans, plugged-in reefer vans, buses, trucks and heavy equipment units.
Built with a better world in mind, MV TA21 is an environment-friendly vessel which features several innovations: reduced carbon emissions, an onboard freshwater generator that converts sea water into fresh pure water, and an IMO MEPC-compliant marine incinerator.
“MV Trans-Asia 21 was contracted for shipbuilding with a highly reputable Japanese shipyard several months prior to the onset of the pandemic and is in partnership with one of the biggest private ship owners in Japan,” revealed Damuy.
Besides its class amenities like its spacious sun deck, convenience store and restaurant, among others, its passengers’ health and safety are addressed through the spacious hallways and accommodations which allow for physical distancing during the pandemic. Senior citizens, persons with disabilities and pregnant women will also welcome the elevator available onboard.
The MV TA21 travel experience is completed by the ship’s competent crew, all contributing to a cleaner, safer and more comfortable sea travel experience for everyone.
MV TA21 is set to ply the Cebu-Cagayan de Oro-Cebu route starting July 2021. For more information, visit www.transasiashipping.com.