Today in the Palermo shipyard of Fincantieri it is the new ferry Costanza I di Sicilia has been launched, construction that was entirely financed by the Region Sicilian. With a length of about 140 meters and a gross tonnage of about 14,500 tons, the ship will be able to carry up to 1,000 passengers and 200 cars, reaching a speed maximum of 19 knots. Propulsion will be ensured by engines dual fuel, powered by marine gasoil and liquefied natural gas. The unit will also have a photovoltaic system which, in combination with a battery pack, will allow the stay in port with zero emissions for about four hours.

The signing of the contract between Fincantieri and the Region Sicily, which will be the first Italian regional body to be Totally proprietary of such a unit, it includes also the option for a second ferry ( of 9 October 2023 and 13 September 2024). The objective of the Region is to strengthen connections with the islands of Lampedusa, Linosa and Pantelleria.

On the occasion of the launch ceremony, the CEO and General Manager of Fincantieri, Pierroberto Folgiero, specified that "today's launch is a starting point to relaunch the construction site as part of the new business plan of Fincantieri, which we will present by the end of the year. The construction of This ship - he specified - is not just a return to the production, but an investment in the future, in skills and Italian manufacturing, in a sector where people represent the most valuable resource. Palermo has a unique vocation in the Mediterranean and will become increasingly central to the strategy of our group».