The vessel has been transferred to the Madeira register and the Portuguese flag 

The Antares ferry appears to be the next vessel to leave the GNV fleet. The Genoese shipping company has not commented, but industry sources report that the ro-pax vessel has recently changed flag, switching to Portugal and the Madeira registry. This signals the likely imminent decommissioning of the ferry, which was purchased by the MSC Group in 2021 from P&O Ferries.

Building of the Antares Ferry 

Built in 1987 by the Japanese shipyard NKK in Tsurumi, the ferry was initially used by GNV on commercial routes to Sicily, but more recently served the line between Southern Italy (Bari) and Albania. It is currently anchored off the port of Durres. The ship has a commercial capacity of 2,100 linear meters, 350 cabins, and can accommodate over 1,000 passengers.

GNV's fleet renewal plan 

Given its age (38 years in service), it is possible that GNV Antares will be scrapped (as happened with its sister ship, GNV Aries, a year ago), but it is also possible that it could continue operating for other shipping lines. GNV's fleet renewal plan continues in parallel with the arrival from the Chinese shipyard GSI of the new ro-pax vessels ordered in recent years: the very recent delivery of GNV Virgo adds to the already existing entry into service of GNV Polaris and GNV Orion.

Establishing GNV company

Founded in 1992, GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci SpA) is today one of the leading shipping companies in the passenger and freight transport sector. With a fleet of 26 ships and 33 routes, it connects 8 countries: Italy, Spain, France, Albania, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, and Malta.

Part of the MSC Group, GNV is pursuing an ambitious growth plan, supported by a strategic vision focused on innovation, sustainability, and fleet renewal.

Alongside passenger services, GNV has historically promoted the development of the Motorways of the Sea, supporting more sustainable mobility. Maritime freight transport offers an efficient and competitive alternative to road transport, helping reduce road congestion and environmental impact, in line with the company's commitment to increasingly responsible and environmentally conscious logistics solutions.

Other Sources 

MSC Group , P&O Ferries. GNV fleet , GNV Antares , Portuguese flag ,Madeira register , Japanese shipyard NKK , GNV Polaris , Albania ,  Southern Italy (Bari)