Australian shipbuilding and defense contractor Austal has been awarded a significant contract worth around $270 million to develop a massive 130-meter-long, hydrogen-ready high-speed passenger ferry for the Swedish ferry line Gotlandsbolaget. The ferry, named Horizon X, is a key component of Gotlandsbolaget’s Horizon X program, which focuses on making the busy route between Gotland and the mainland more environmentally sustainable. The vessel will have the capacity to accommodate 1,650 passengers and 450 cars, with a top speed of 35 knots, marking it as Austal's largest construction to date. Construction will commence in early 2026 at Austal's shipyard in the Philippines, with an expected completion date in mid-2028. The ferry will feature a specially designed propulsion system that reuses engine exhaust to aid in propulsion, aiming to lower emissions significantly. Additionally, the vessel will incorporate 'green aluminium' in its construction to further enhance sustainability, though details on the exact environmental impact of this aluminum remain undisclosed. The concept of being 'hydrogen-ready' raises questions about the specifics of this technology's implementation and the potential use of alternative fuels in the future. While several hydrogen-fueled boats are already operational globally, including the Sea Change ferry in San Francisco, the exact details of this new addition remain to be clarified. Despite the lack of certain specifics, the project signifies a positive step towards greener maritime technology and sustainable travel practices.