Stena Forwarder
Replacing the Stena Challenger on the Holyhead – Dublin service in April 2001 was the chartered Italian-flag Stena Forwarder. The ship was another boost for the service which started in 1995 as a freight only operating. With accommodation for 1000 passengers, 500 more than her predecessor, the Stena Forwarder also increased freight capacity by some 60%. With the arrival of the new Stena Adventurer in sight, the “Fowarder” was sold by her owners for service in Mexico. Her final sailing from Dublin was on 13 April 2003, by which time she had already been renamed California Star.
An early evening shot of the Stena Forwarder alongside at Holyhead. © John Lewis
Passing the HSS Stena Explorer in Dublin Bay. © Justin Merrigan Collection.
 Stena Forwarder at Holyhead. © John Lewis |
 Loading for Dublin. © John Lewis |
 Leaving Holyhead for Dublin. © John Lewis |
 Final days at Holyhead. © John Lewis |
 Renamed California Star. © John Lewis |
 In Mexican waters as California Star. |