Stena Line is set to acquire NLC Ferry Ab Oy, which operates under the Wasaline brand, and take over operations of the ferry route between Umeå and Vaasa.
“It is with great joy and enthusiasm that we at Stena Line take on the responsibility for Wasaline and the route between two important regions and cities, Umeå and Vaasa,” said Niclas Mårtensson, CEO of Stena Line.
The service is currently operated by NLC Ferry, owned jointly by the cities of Vaasa and Umeå through their 50/50 venture Kvarken Link, which will continue to own the vessel Aurora Botnia.
Wasaline CEO Peter Ståhlberg said the move would strengthen the service and enhance environmental and operational efficiency. “Wasaline’s staff, both onshore and onboard, will continue to deliver the same great service as today. This will be a major boost for the region, bringing significant positive synergies,” he said.
In July 2025, Wasaline signed a bio-LNG supply agreement with Gasum and a FuelEU Maritime pooling deal with Stena Line, making the Umeå–Vaasa connection the first international green shipping corridor.
“With Wasaline, we gain a vessel equipped with the latest environmental technology and a strong intermodal link toward Gothenburg, Trelleborg and continental Europe,” Mårtensson added.
The deal, pending municipal and regulatory approval, is expected to close in early 2026.
