Renovated Barlovento Express Introduces New Services

Fred. Olsen Express has completed a series of upgrades on the Barlovento Express to mark the first anniversary of its service on the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria–Morro Jable route. In its inaugural year the vessel completed more than 1,150 trips, carrying over 360,000 passengers, along with a substantial volume of vehicles and cargo. To celebrate this milestone, the ship underwent a 31‑day technical stop in the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, during which a range of new features were installed to enhance comfort, accessibility, and functionality.

Key Improvements

• Children’s Playground

  • Permanent, larger play area equipped with interactive games.
  • Replaces the provisional zone previously used, offering greater safety and entertainment for young travelers.

• Gold Class Enhancements

  • New exclusive bathrooms.
  • Executive seats with larger dimensions, upgraded upholstery, sturdy fold‑down trays, power outlets, and USB ports.
  • Similar upgrades applied to other lounges to support electronic device use.

• Interior Lighting Renewal

  • Modern luminaires installed throughout common areas: lounges, cafés, shop, wine cellar, and access points.
  • Aims to create a more contemporary, efficient, and welcoming atmosphere.

• Accessibility Upgrades

  • New automatic doors and adapted ramps at both bow and stern.
  • Facilitates smoother passenger flow and boarding for people with reduced mobility.

• Pet Room Block

  • Added in the exterior bow area to improve conditions for passengers traveling with companion animals.
  • Planned installation of a video‑surveillance system, following the model used on other company vessels.

• Technical Maintenance

  • Comprehensive engine review to optimize performance and operational efficiency.
  • Updated garage insulation system to enhance safety during navigation.

Strategic Importance

The Barlovento Express serves the vital maritime link between Morro Jable and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, one of the archipelago’s key routes. The newly introduced amenities are designed to provide a more comfortable and modern travel experience, meeting contemporary passenger expectations while preserving the service’s regularity and reliability.