Both ships operate across the southern North Sea between Harwich in Essex, England, and Hook of Holland, Netherlands, providing a twice daily service.

Stena Britannica has four main MAN diesel engines, producing between them 33,600 kilowatts (45,100 hp), and providing for a maximum speed of 22 knots (41 km/h; 25 mph).

[4] Delays arose when Stena temporarily withdrew the order in response to economic difficulties being experienced by Waden Yards.

After further negotiations the order was reinstated, but the new agreement included a price cut of 6% or approximately €24 million.

Stena Britannica is the focus of the Season 4 Episode 4 of the documentary TV show Mighty Ships.