Built as a catamaran ferry by the Westmarin A/S yard of Mandal, Norway for K/S Haanes Rederi, Norway
1981 Launched under the name GIMLE BIRD. (see note below)
Tonnage 321 gross, 218 net, 30 dwt., dim. 31.53 x 9.73 x 3.82m., draught 1.62m. The Portuguese Post leaflet gives a length of 21.52m.
Two MTU motors, 4.184 bhp., speed 28 knots,
Passenger accommodation for 244 passengers and 5 ton cargo.
1983 Sold to Ocean Bird A/S, Norway, not renamed.
1984 Sold to Government of Madeira (Governo Regional de Madeira), Portugal, renamed INDEPENDÊNCIA.
She sails in a daily service from Funchal to Vila Baleira, and can make the journey in 90 minutes.
2019 According http://www.equasis.org still sailing under that name for same owners.
IMO No. 7808035.
Madeira 1992 65e sg282, scott163.
Source; Log Book, Watercraft Philately. Marine News 1984/40, 568.Lloyds Registers. Info received from Mr. John D Stevenson. Portugues Post leaflet. http://www.webruler.com/gprovost/ShipsG.htm