Swedish shipping company Gotlandsbolaget has awarded Austal Australasia a significant contract valued between A$265 million ($166.5 million) and A$275 million for the design and construction of a groundbreaking 130-meter hydrogen-ready high-speed roll-on/roll-off passenger vehicle (RoPax) catamaran ferry. This vessel, part of the Gotlandsbolaget’s ‘Horizon X’ series, is set to redefine commercial ferry capabilities with its innovative propulsion system and eco-friendly design.
Key Takeaways
- Contract Value: Between A$265 million and A$275 million.
- Vessel Size: 130 meters long, designed to carry up to 1,500 passengers and 400 vehicles.
- Speed: Capable of reaching speeds of 35 knots, reducing travel time to under three hours.
- Construction Timeline: Begins in the first half of 2026, with completion expected by mid-2028.
- Sustainability Focus: Incorporates green aluminum and a multi-fuel propulsion system.
Overview of the Project
The new ferry will be the largest ever constructed by Austal, featuring a unique combined cycle propulsion system that utilizes both gas and steam turbines. This innovative approach is a first for high-speed vessels globally, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions.
The catamaran is designed to operate on various fuel types, including hydrogen, aligning with Gotlandsbolaget’s commitment to sustainability and climate-neutral operations. The vessel will significantly shorten travel times between the island of Gotland and the Swedish mainland, catering to the high demand during peak seasons.
Construction Details
- Shipyard: The ferry will be constructed at Austal’s shipyard in the Philippines.
- Materials: Utilizes “green aluminum” produced through energy-efficient processes to minimize carbon emissions.
- Completion Date: Expected by mid-2028, following the commencement of construction in early 2026.
Technological Innovations
Austal’s CEO, Paddy Gregg, emphasized the project’s potential to redefine commercial ferry capabilities. The flexible fuel technology demonstrated in the Horizon X project is a significant step towards the decarbonization of commercial ferries. The vessel’s propulsion system is designed to repurpose engine exhaust, further enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions.
Industry Impact
The Horizon X project represents a pivotal moment in the maritime industry, showcasing the shift towards sustainable and innovative ferry designs. With the approval in principle from the international classification society DNV, the project is set to comply with regulations for gas-fueled ship installations, ensuring safety and environmental standards are met.
Gotlandsbolaget’s CEO, Håkan Johansson, highlighted the importance of this vessel in their strategy to achieve climate-neutral operations. The incorporation of advanced hydrodynamic design and lightweight materials will minimize fuel consumption and emissions, setting a new standard for future ferry designs.
Conclusion
The contract signed between Gotlandsbolaget and Austal marks a significant advancement in the maritime sector, focusing on sustainability and innovation. As the industry moves towards greener technologies, the Horizon X ferry is poised to lead the way in redefining high-speed ferry travel, benefiting both passengers and the environment.
Sources
- Austal wins contract to build hydrogen-ready RoPax ferry for Sweden’s Gotlandsbolaget, MSN.
- Contract Signed To Build 130M ‘Hydrogen-Ready’, Marine Link.
