Starlite Ferries, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Chelsea Logistics, further expanded its presence in Mindanao with the addition of the Cebu-Nasipit-Cebu route. This new route will provide passengers and shippers an alternative option to travel and conduct business in the bustling town of Nasipit.
As the major seaport in Agusan Del Norte, the Nasipit Port’s strategic location is a gateway for the unhampered movement of essential goods, services, and passengers in the region. The Nasipit Port was assigned by the Philippine Port Authority as an international base port while the municipality of Nasipit was identified as the Regional Agri-Industrial Growth Center of the Caraga Region. Contributing to the economic growth of the Mindanao region, Nasipit boasts of its historic sites, architecture, landmarks, natural resources and tourist attractions.
Starlite Ferries General Manager Shane Arante said that Starlite’s newest route will be served by MV Starlite Saturn, a 5-year old passenger ship built in Kegoya, Japan and specifically designed for the Philippine waters. MV Starlite Saturn has a GRT of 2,700 tons and a carrying capacity of 340 passengers, 26 units of rolling cargoes, including private vehicles, jeeps, buses, and 6W and 10W trucks. The vessel provides accommodation types which range from Recliners, Tourist, and Economy.
For this new route, MV Starlite Saturn will depart Cebu to Nasipit on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 8PM, while the Nasipit to Cebu route is scheduled on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 6PM.
“This vessel is part of the Chelsea Group’s vessel modernization program, providing safer, more convenient, and more comfortable sea transportation services for our passengers,” Mr. Arante added.
Chelsea Logistics President & CEO Chryss Damuy emphasized the Group’s commitment to provide the channel for economic activities such as transportation and tourism, to thrive and continuously grow.
“Our eyes are fixed on improving the supply chain while protecting the well-being of passengers and seafarers. That’s why as of today, Starlite land-based and sea-based employees are 96% fully vaccinated, while the whole Chelsea Group is at 90%,” Mr. Damuy said.
With the decreasing rate of new COVID cases and the increasing number of vaccinated Filipinos, the Chelsea Group has been seeing significant improvements in its passage and cargo services.
“This milestone event would not have been possible without the cooperation of our business partners, government authorities, and employees. It is a testament to our togetherness and desire for the shipping industry to continuously connect goods, services, and people to their destinations and help businesses withstand the continuing effects of the pandemic.,” Mr. Damuy concluded.
