Construction of ‘world’s largest’ electric ferry reaches major milestone

Australian manufacturer of high-speed catamaran ferries Incat Tasmania has reached a milestone in the construction of what is said to be the “world’s largest” electric ferry.

As disclosed, the final passenger deck module of Incat Hull 096 was lifted into place, signaling the structural completion of the vessel.

The successful placement of the front superstructure is an important moment in the journey toward launching the electric ferry. Incat said that this is “the largest and most technically challenging module” the firm has ever lifted.

Once completed, the ferry, which was ordered by South American operator Buquebús, will measure 130 meters in length and will be capable of carrying 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles.

With its structure now complete, the project moves into the next critical phase: the internal fit-out. The company is already working on outfitting passenger amenities and preparing the duty-free shopping deck, which spans more than 2,300 square meters. In the coming months, major machinery will begin to arrive at the shipyard for installation to bring this vessel to life.

“While the industry anticipates the launch of Hull 096 next year, Incat is planning for the future and undergoing a significant expansion to ensure we can build many more electric ferries to meet the growing demand,” Incat Chairman Robert Clifford commented.

To remind, Finnish technology group Wärtsilä has been contracted to provide the battery electric propulsion system and waterjets for the Incat Hull 096. The ship will be fully battery-powered, with e-motor driven Wärtsilä waterjets as the main propulsors. The battery modules and energy storage system package is four times larger than on any electric/hybrid ship currently operating, according to the firm.

The battery electric ferry, which will operate between Argentina and Uruguay, is slated for delivery in late 2025.