Letter of Intent signed - New Shipyard AxYards planned to safeguard the operational supply security of archipelago traffic
Published on 31.10.2025
The Government of Åland (ÅLR) and Finland Archipelago Shipping Ltd – part of the Finferries Group – have signed a letter of intent to establish a new shipyard, AxYards.
The goal of the future repair dock is to strengthen the supply security and self-sufficiency of archipelago traffic by providing reliable and modern shipyard capacity for commuter ferries, ferries, and other vessels of similar size.
If the project proceeds as planned, AxYards would become the first newly established dry dock in Finland in over thirty years.
“We have repeatedly faced challenges in securing sufficient docking capacity precisely when it is most needed. AxYards aims to address this need – to build an own and sustainable and predictable solution that serves both Finferries and the archipelago traffic needs of Åland”, says Håkan Fagerström, CEO of Finferries.
The planned dry dock basin will be 110 meters long and 20 meters wide and its location is planned in the Möckelö area in Mariehamn.
There is clearly a growing demand in the market for repair docks of this size, as many vessels operating in the Finnish and Åland archipelago are too large for smaller shipyards, but on the other hand too small for major shipyard complexes.
The shipyard’s services will also be offered to other shipping companies and maritime operators, strengthening its position as part of the Finnish and Åland maritime cluster.
The realization of the project depends on the feasibility and profitability of the long-term operational plan for the shipyard. In addition, compliance with environmental impact requirements will be ensured. The work is demanding, but at the same time it opens significant opportunities for the development of archipelago traffic and domestic shipbuilding.
“This is a major but realistic step. If we succeed, AxYards could become an important piece not only of archipelago supply security, but also of a new era for Finnish repair shipyards,” Fagerström continues.
The project is also a clear demonstration of constructive and effective cooperation between Finferries and the Government of Åland. Both parties share the common goal of strengthening the vitality of the archipelago and securing critical infrastructure well into the future.
The aim is for AxYards to be operational and ready to receive its first vessels to the dry dock by the end of the third quarter of 2027.
Additional information:
Håkan Fagerström
CEO, Finferries
tel. +358 40 515 6329
hakan.fagerstrom(at)finferries.fi