The Australian shipping line has decided to pull back from the memorandum of understanding signed in February for the construction of two ro-paxes.

Production of the 48k-big newbuildings, each able to take up to 1,800 passengers on-board, was scheduled to commence in Rauma at the beginning of 2021.

"Regretfully TT-Line Company has informed us, that they have decided to withdraw from the MOU and postpone signing any Shipbuilding Contracts with reference to the present economic outlook due to the COVID-19 pandemic. […] We are always ready to continue the negotiations with TT-Line Company when the shipbuilding project is topical again," Jyrki Heinimaa, CEO, Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC), commented.

He furthered, "The situation is naturally unfortunate for RMC, but we are pleased to say that the withdrawal does not cause any immediate re-structuring at RMC. […] The execution of the projects under construction [two ferries] and the planning of the four multi-role corvettes will continue at Rauma shipyard as planned. RMC will also focus on new and alternative prospects with attractive delivery slots."

"It has been a pleasure to work with RMC and it is unfortunate that in the current economic climate we have to step away from what we believe would have been a fruitful three years' partnership," Bernard Dwyer, CEO, TT-Line Company, also said.

Photo: Rauma Marine Constructions