The vessel, christened at an event attended by over 400 people, underscores the company's commitment to the connectivity of the Canary Islands and enhancing the travel experience. The ceremony was attended by authorities including the President of the Government of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, and representatives from island councils and municipalities.
Baleària's President, Adolfo Utor, highlighted the company's seven years of experience in the archipelago, reaffirming its commitment to long-term presence and service. "Each island has its own identity, economy, and mobility needs, and each deserves singular attention," he stated, marking the beginning of a new phase for the territorial cohesion and competitiveness of Canarias.
Fernando Clavijo thanked Baleària for its "investment in the Canary Islands, its confidence in the islands, and its long-term vision," noting that the 'Mercedes Pinto' "bears the name of one of our distinguished writers," referring to Mercedes Pinto, whose name honors Canarian talent.
The investment in this new fast ferry amounts to 128 million euros. The strategic route between Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Morro Jable will offer 6 daily departures between the two capital cities and 2 between Morro Jable and Tenerife. Baleària plans to introduce more vessels, such as the 'Pepita Castellví' and 'Josefina de la Torre', and intends to invest 45 million euros over the next three years to modernize its fleet in the Canary Islands.
The 'Mercedes Pinto', measuring 123 meters in length with capacity for 1,200 passengers and 425 vehicles, reaches speeds of 35 knots. Designed as a 'smart ship', it offers digitized services, VIP lounges, an outdoor terrace, dining areas, and a children's zone. It features a stabilization system and real-time measurements to optimize operational efficiency.
This catamaran is Baleària's twelfth vessel equipped with dual engines capable of running on natural gas and biogas, aligning with its decarbonization roadmap and the transition to sustainable maritime transport.
The ship's name pays tribute to Mercedes Pinto (1883-1970), a writer, poet, and playwright born in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, recognized for her advocacy of civil rights and her intellectual independence. Baleària thus links part of its fleet to prominent female figures in culture and science.
