Stena RoRo has prepared the design and a project manager has been appointed to convert the large vehicle and passenger ferry Stena Saga into a hospital ship with space for 520 patients.
Stena RoRo can convert the ferry within just a few weeks and have it ready to provide additional healthcare capacity in a corona-affected region. Contact has been established with authorities in Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Germany.
When passenger service on Stena Saga’s Oslo – Fredrikshamn route was permanently closed because of COVID-19 and travel restrictions imposed by several countries, Stena Line transferred the ship to sister company Stena RoRo with the objective of finding an alternative use for the vessel.
Stena Saga has over 590 passenger cabins. According to the design prepared by Stena RoRo to convert the ferry into a hospital ship, there will be space for 520 patients.
To meet the requirements for medical care, we need, among other things, to rebuild the ventilation system, install alarms and communications systems, and also change the interior furnishings. In addition, patients and crew must be able to be kept apart. We can do what needs to be done in two to three weeks
stated Stena RoRo project manager Rikard Olsson.
However, the converted ferry will not be equipped for intensive care. The idea is to provide care for corona patients who need hospital care but not intensive care. There may also be a need for beds for patients who have left intensive care but still require medical care awhile longer.
The Stena Saga is now in the port of Uddevalla and Stena RoRo is investigating interest in the care capacity the ferry could provide.
In addition to Sweden, where contact has already been established with the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency, contact is also being prioritized with the authorities in Norway, Denmark and Germany.
