Fast Lines Belgium has named its first two newbuild vessels, the Damen CF 3850 Fast Olivia and Fast Anna Sofia, in Antwerp as the Belgian shortsea operator advances a three-ship programme with Damen, according to the Dutch shipbuilder.
The naming ceremony took place on 2 May at the Port of Antwerp, with Damen publishing its account on 6 May. The two ships are the first newbuildings to enter Fast Lines Belgium’s fleet, while a third sister vessel, Fast Gilles, remains under construction at Damen Yichang Shipyard in China.
The programme began with an order for two vessels in October 2023, with Fast later exercising an option for a third ship.
Damen said the first two vessels in the series were launched in China on 19 May 2025 and 30 May 2025.
More than 200 guests attended the Antwerp ceremony, including Fast Lines staff from Belgium, the UK, Ireland and Poland, as well as Damen representatives, customers and suppliers.
The vessels were christened with locally brewed Seef beer instead of the customary champagne bottle.
Damen said the first two CF 3850 vessels had already been operating for about six months before the ceremony. Fast Lines Belgium managing director Yvan Vlaminckx said crews sailed the vessels from China to Europe on delivery and quickly reported positive feedback on their efficiency and onboard design.
