Friday, March 29, 2024

Italy’s Liberty Lines orders three more hybrid ferries from Incat

Italian ferry operator Liberty Lines has expanded its order of 38 meters long (125 feet) hybrid monohull passenger ferries from Incat Crowther with three additional vessels added to the original order of nine – pushing the ordering tally to 12 ships.

Each of the twelve new vessels will be equipped with Rolls-Royce integrated MTU hybrid propulsion systems, each comprising two 16V4000M65L engines, two gearboxes, two e-motors, electric systems, two variable-speed gensets, a battery system, switchboard, electrical power management system, and an MTU hybrid automation system.

The new ferry can switch to various operating modes. For instance, in all-electric mode, it will have the ability to enter and leave ports at speeds up to 8 knots (9.2 mph) in zero-emission mode. When switching to hybrid mode, the vessel will be capable of reaching its top speed of 30 knots (34.5 mph) whilst simultaneously charging the batteries by the two main engines and deactivating the gensets for hotel load. During longer stops, the batteries are charged by means of the shore power supply.

Each vessel can accommodate 251 passengers in safety and comfort. The main deck of each vessel features seating for 166 passengers, five bathrooms, and a kiosk/bar amidships. The upper deck seats a further 85 passengers with an additional two toilets. The new ships are also designed to provide ample storage space – large luggage racks are situated throughout the vessel’s two passenger cabins, in addition to overhead luggage bins.

The expansion of the project comes following Incat Crowther’s proven digital design process delivered a forward-thinking design solution for the Trapani-based operator. With construction underway at Astilleros Armon’s shipyard in Spain, delivery of the vessels is expected to take place between 2023 and 2026.

Incat Crowther’s CEO Brett Crowther said the additional order was a sign of the growing demand for low-emission ferries.

“Our work with Liberty Lines is yet another example of the ability of Incat Crowther to design and deliver tailored and innovative low-emission high-speed ferries for operators all around the world,” said Mr. Crowther. “We’re seeing growing demand for low and zero-emission passenger ferries, and our proven digital design process means Incat Crowther is perfectly placed to help operators both reduce emissions and increase operational efficiency as the world transitions to a net zero future.”