Austal Australasia Wins Contract for Groundbreaking Hydrogen-Ready High-Speed Ferry
Key Ideas
- Austal Australasia secures a contract to design and build a 130-m hydrogen-ready vehicle passenger ferry for Gotlandsbolaget of Sweden as part of the Horizon X program.
- The ferry will feature a unique combined cycle propulsion system with gas and steam turbines, aiming for high efficiency and reduced emissions.
- Construction of the multi-fuel catamaran using green aluminum will begin in the first half of 2026 in the Austal Philippines shipyard, with completion expected by mid-2028.
- The project signifies a significant step towards decarbonizing commercial ferries and achieving climate-neutral operations for Gotlandsbolaget through innovative green technology and hydrogen-capable propulsion systems.
Austal Australasia has been awarded a groundbreaking contract by Gotlandsbolaget of Sweden to design and construct a 130-m hydrogen-ready vehicle passenger ferry as part of the Horizon X program. This high-speed catamaran will feature a combined cycle propulsion system incorporating gas and steam turbines, a first in high-speed craft globally. With a capacity for 1,500 passengers, cargo, and 400 vehicles, the ferry will be constructed using green aluminum at the Austal Philippines shipyard to reduce emissions. Scheduled for completion in mid-2028, the project aims to redefine commercial ferry capabilities and lead the way in decarbonizing operations. Gotlandsbolaget's chief executive emphasized the vessel's sustainability, highlighting the incorporation of cutting-edge green technology, including a hydrogen-ready gas turbine propulsion system. The collaboration between Austal and Gotlandsbolaget marks a milestone in the journey towards climate-neutral operations, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility. This project showcases the advancement of green technology in the maritime industry and sets a new standard for efficient and sustainable ferry operations.