On 29th November the 24,828gt/1981 built Stena Europe had to return to Holyhead after smoke was spotted coming from a refrigeration unit on the car deck of the Holyhead to Dublin sailing. The ship was covering for the refit of the Stena Nordica and two RNLI lifeboats from Holyhead were launched as well as a search and rescue helicopter from RAF Valley, a routine response.

At no time were passengers or crew in any danger and the ship departed again for Dublin at 1045. The Stena Nordica was due to complete her refit on 1st December with the Stena Europe proceeding to Birkenhead the same day to take her place. The Fishguard-Rosslare service was therefore suspended from 28th November to 7th December.