by Genivi Verdejo
STARLITE Ferries Inc. along with parent company Chelsea Logistics have deployed a brand-new, Japanese-built roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ship to boost fleet capacity and upgrade inter-island services.
Starlite Ferries and Chelsea Logistics launched its passenger vessel M/V Starlite Gratitude, at Pier 5, Cebu City on June 29, 2026.
The deployment marks the latest phase of the shipping line’s strategy to integrate custom-built ships into the Philippine domestic network. Corporate leadership noted that the vessel is specifically configured to navigate local open-sea conditions while increasing cargo capacity and operational reliability.
Built by Kegoya Dock of Japan, the M/V Starlite Gratitude measures 67.60 meters long and 15.30 meters wide. Twin Yanmar diesel engines with a combined output of 1,370 kilowatts propel the ship to service speeds of 13 to 14 knots. Onboard amenities feature fully air-conditioned spaces equipped with reclining seats, footrests, and individual seat belts.
Chelsea Logistics President and CEO Chryss Alfonsus Damuy and Starlite Ferries General Manager Shane Anthony Arante led the corporate delegation. Management said that adding higher-specification newbuilds secures long-distance passenger loyalty and satisfies the stringent logistics requirements of corporate cargo clients.
Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) officials, led by Administrator Sonia Malaluan, Chief of Staff Ramon Hernandez, and Regional Director Ronaldo Bandalaria attended the event. Malaluan commended the operators, noting that the vessel complies with the modernization and safety mandates of the government’s Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028.
The M/V Starlite Gratitude expands the company’s footprint along critical maritime routes, including the Western Nautical Highway. Starlite Ferries plans to continue replacing older, legacy hulls with custom Japanese new-builds to ensure long-term efficiency and high standards of maritime safety.
