Full Ahead Ep 7. Stena Futura and Capt David McNamee

Today (Thurs 18th Sept) saw the arrival of the first of a new type of hybrid ferry in Heysham Port in Lancashire and we were there to witness it.The 147-metre Stena Futura will operate 12 sailings per week providing additional freight capacity on the popular route between north west England and Belfast.Once operational, Stena Futura and sister ship Stena Connecta, which is currently under construction and due to enter service on the Belfast-Heysham route in early 2026, will increase freight capacity by 40%.Joining Alistair and Nigel on the blustery quayside at Heysham was author Matt Davies who was there to record the arrival and told us about his life-long interest in shipping.From the brand new there's also a conversation with a captain who began his remarkable career at 13 and is still active half a century later.Capt Dave McNamee has served all over the world and in a quirk of fate is now one of the volunteers aboard The Danny (as featured in episode 6), a ship he first saw as a school boy.From the Pacific to the Irish Sea, hear some of his amazing stories and the kind of anecdotes he shared during his time at Fleetwood Nautical College.And Daisy, the Full Ahead dog, makes a guest appearance!It's a busy edition which we hope you enjoy!Leave a comment, get in touch and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.