Estonia has embarked on an innovative project, calling for tenders to build a €40 million ferry, which will be uniquely powered by hydrogen fuel. This zero-emission initiative is set to significantly upgrade the transportation links to the nation’s primary islands, positioning the ferry as a symbol of energy efficiency and environmental consciousness. The operation of this trailblazing ferry is scheduled for October 2026, setting a new standard in island travel.
The conceptualization of this cutting-edge ferry was a collaborative effort with the Estonian Maritime Academy, part of Tallinn University of Technology. This collaboration aimed to create a digital twin prototype alongside the ferry’s construction, marking a significant stride in maritime technology.
Designed to operate solely on hydrogen fuel or electricity provided from the shore, the ferry is engineered to adeptly handle Estonia’s winter conditions, demonstrating both its adaptability and resilience. The integration of novel technologies and a ground-breaking hull design results in the ferry consuming about 20% less energy than its predecessors, heralding a new era in ferry design.
Kristen Michal, Estonian Minister of Climate, remarked, “The further development of ferry technology is necessary to improve the quality of connections for people and visitors to the islands. By using energy efficiently, we as a country, as customers, can get more journeys for every euro, and in a way that is more respectful of nature.”
Andres Laasma, Director General of the State Fleet, highlighted, “Based on the zero-emission principle, the ferry can be propelled by shore-supplied electricity or hydrogen fuel and can operate in winter conditions in Estonia with lower energy costs. Thanks to new technologies and an innovative hull design, the energy consumption of the new ferry is about 20% lower than the previous generation of ferries.”
Esa Jokioinen, Sales Director at Deltamarin, emphasized the vessel’s role in enhancing connectivity to the islands while minimizing environmental impact.
In a recent development, the Estonian State Fleet has enlisted Hamburgische Schiffbau-Versuchsanstalt GmbH (HSVA) to evaluate the ferry’s performance in icy conditions.
Patrick Wrede, Key Account Manager at Lloyd’s Register (LR) EMEA, shared, “LR is pleased to have acted as a trusted adviser on this project with Estonian State Fleet to provide the Estonian government with a new battery-hydrogen fueled ferry for the Virtsu-Kuivastu and Rohuküla-Heltermaa routes.”
The ferry, with a capacity of 700 passengers, will feature about 20% more car lane space than earlier models. Its design prioritizes passenger comfort, offering facilities such as a restaurant, a shop, spacious recreation areas, a children’s play area, and designated spaces for pets.
Proposals for the vessel’s construction and design are due by January 17, 2024. The ferry is expected to commence its maiden voyage on the Virtsu–Kuivastu route on October 1, 2026. Funding for this ambitious project will come from the European Modernisation Fund and CO2 emissions trading revenues.
Estonian State Fleet, a hub of maritime expertise and innovation, focuses on managing state vessels, navigation signals, piloting services, and advancing green fuels and sustainable technologies.
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