Solar Solve Marine, the South Shields–based manufacturer of SOLASOLV® marine window blinds for Irish Ferries, has received an order from Irish Ferries for one of its flagship vessels operating on the Irish Sea.
The order covers three SOLASOLV® marine window blinds for installation at the navigation bridge windows of the HSC Jonathan Swift (also known as Dublin Swift), a high-speed ferry operating on the Dublin–Holyhead route.
SOLASOLV® marine window blinds are designed specifically for navigation bridge environments, where glare control, visibility, and crew comfort are critical to safe vessel operation.
Addressing Low-Sun Glare on Fixed Ferry Routes
While SOLASOLV® marine window blinds are widely recognised for their ability to reduce heat gain during summer operations, Irish Ferries placed this order during the winter season to combat a different challenge, low-angle solar glare.
On fixed ferry routes such as Dublin–Holyhead, the low-lying winter sun often sits directly in the navigator’s line of sight. Reflections from the sea surface can significantly impair visibility and increase eye strain.
By rejecting up to 92% of solar glare, SOLASOLV® marine window blinds:
- Reduce eye fatigue for bridge personnel
- Improve readability of electronic navigation displays
- Help minimise the risk of human error
- Maintain a clear outward view at all times
These benefits are especially important for high-speed vessels operating to tight schedules in variable weather and light conditions.
More details on glare reduction technology can be found on Solar Solve’s page covering anti-glare marine blinds.
HSC Jonathan Swift – Vessel Overview
The HSC Jonathan Swift was constructed by Austal Ships in Henderson, Australia, at a cost of approximately £29 million (€37 million). Launched in February 1999 and delivered to Dublin in May of the same year, the vessel entered service in July 1999.
Key vessel specifications include:
- Catamaran high-speed ferry design
- Capacity for 800 passengers and 200 cars
- Four Caterpillar 3618 diesel engines producing 28,800 kW
- Four Kamewa waterjets for propulsion
- Service speed of 40 knots (75 km/h)
- Crossing time as short as 1 hour 49 minutes
As Irish Ferries’ first high-speed craft, Jonathan Swift represents a demanding operational environment where navigation visibility is essential.
Custom-Made Marine Window Blinds for Irish Ferries
SOLASOLV® marine window blinds for Irish Ferries are custom-manufactured in the UK to precise window dimensions, ensuring optimal fit and performance on the bridge.
Paul Hopkins, Solar Solve Marine’s Sales and Marketing Executive, commented:
“SOLASOLV® marine window blinds are not only very beneficial in summer—they are equally valuable in winter when low sun and water reflections can be troublesome for vessels operating on fixed routes. We are delighted that Irish Ferries has chosen SOLASOLV®, which are custom-made in Britain and exported worldwide.”
Solar Solve Marine supplies tailored glare-control solutions for ferries, cruise ships, naval vessels, and offshore assets globally. Learn more about their experience across vessel types via their marine sector solutions.
Conclusion
The installation of marine window blinds for Irish Ferries aboard the HSC Jonathan Swift highlights the importance of effective glare control for high-speed passenger vessels. By selecting SOLASOLV®, Irish Ferries has invested in improved bridge visibility, enhanced crew comfort, and safer navigation during challenging low-sun conditions. This project reinforces SOLASOLV®’s reputation as a trusted solution for commercial ferry operators operating year-round on demanding routes.
