Estonian shipping group Tallink is investing a total of €20 million in upgrading the two Helsinki-Stockholm ferries operated by its Finland-Sweden brand Silja Line. The first, Silja Serenade, came out of Turku Repair Yard on 15 February after six weeks undergoing both technical maintenance of its propellers and shafts plus a major rebuild of some passenger areas. Sistership Silja Symphony will have the same work carried out on her in autumn.
The ships are well known for being the world’s first to have the soaring ‘atrium-style’ high, open mall running for 150m of their 203m length. The Promenade now features several new shops modified to meet modern tastes. Two new restaurants, Grande Buffet (ex-Buffet Serenade) and an Italian ristorante, Tavolata (former Maxim’s), improve the dining range. Three premium suites and 34 new Commodore Class cabins have also been created, and there is access to the new private Commodore Lounge. JP
