By Sue-Ann Wayow
A NEW roll-on/roll-off passenger and cargo vessel, the MV Blue Wave Harmony will be replacing the MV Cabo Star upon the expiry of its lease.
The National Infrastructure Development Company Limited (NIDCO) said in a media release on Tuesday that the Blue Wave Harmony was expected to arrive tentatively in Trinidad on January 18, weather conditions permitting.
NIDCO stated, “The securing of the MV Blue Wave Harmony follows a deliberate and carefully managed procurement process, to ensure improved operational compatibility at both the Port of Port of Spain and the Port of Scarborough, whilst also delivering enhanced cargo capacity, passenger comfort, operational safety, reliability, and reduced transit times.
“The vessel also allows hauliers, truckers, and users transporting heavier cargo to benefit from improved onboard passenger comfort comparable to that of the passenger ferry service.”
NIDCO said the MV Blue Wave Harmony was a more capable and reliable vessel with key attributes including:
· Improved operational reliability, with four main engines providing increased redundancy, reduced risk of service disruption, and improved travel times
· Enhanced Passenger Amenities
· Improved passenger facilities, including: 73 passenger cabins, each equipped with beds and bathrooms,142-seat self-service restaurant, lounge and entertainment areas; improved accessibility features, including a passenger lift.
· Increased cargo capacity, accommodating approximately 125 freight units, compared to about 90 trailers on the Cabo Star, enabling more consistent and reliable cargo movement
· Enhanced refrigerated cargo capability, with 31 fixed reefer sockets, supporting the transport of temperature-sensitive goods such as food and pharmaceuticals
· Heavier-duty loading ramps, including internal tiltable ramps, allowing for the safe carriage of heavy equipment, bulk cargo, and specialised loads
· Enhanced vessel stability and seakeeping, as a longer and wider European-class vessel, supporting safer loading operations and smoother crossings
· Certified capability to transport dangerous and specialised cargo, supported by appropriate ventilation and safety systems
· No scheduled dry-docking in 2026, allowing for uninterrupted operations throughout the year.
NIDCO stated, “While the vessel will be operated by its owners, the upgraded onboard facilities and expanded service offerings will create opportunities for local employment, including the engagement of local concessionaires and service providers, thereby increasing local content and economic participation.”
APT James to return to full service
In a separate release, NIDCO also advised that APT James has successfully completed its five-year dry-docking and is expected to return to full service by Friday.
The vessel was taken out of service on November 20, 2025 to undergo its mandatory five-year dry docking – a comprehensive “Special Survey” that ensures the vessel’s continued safety, operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and structural integrity.
The works were carried out on the AMT Goliath – the nation’s first semi-submersible floating dock and were successfully completed NIDCO stated.
NIDCO thanked the public for its patience and cooperation during the dry-docking period and gave its assurance of government’s renewed commitment to ensuring the safety and reliability of the sea bridge.
NIDCO also advised that the MV Buccoo Reef was scheduled to undergo similar dry-docking this month.
Together with the reintroduction of the T&T Spirit and the continued operation of the MV Galleons Passage, the initiatives significantly strengthen the capacity, reliability, and resilience of the inter-island sea bridge, NIDCO stated.
