Ponte Ferries Struggles with the Catamaran “HSC Ártemis”

Ponte Ferries continues to face operational issues with the catamaran “HSC Ártemis” (IMO 9200225) amid the legal battle initiated by Virtu Ferries. Frequent breakdowns due to “technical problems” have been reported, with the most recent example being the cancellation of the trip between La Valetta and Augusta with passengers already on board, which caused anger among customers and led to the crew treating them with disrespect whenever they tried to inquire about what was happening.

Discontent with Ponte Ferries' service has spilled over onto social media, where a significant number of passengers have detailed their negative experiences in recent weeks, as reported by maltashipnews.com.

This catamaran, in service since 1999, is the former “Bonanza Express,” which operated for Fred. Olsen Express from that year until its sale in December 2020.

Photo: Emmanuel L (shipspotting.com)