Spanish shipyard Astilleros Armon is building a dozen hybrid monohull passenger ferries for Italian operator Liberty Lines, with deliveries scheduled to run from this year until 2026. Each newbuild in the series will measure 39.5m x 8.3m and feature a depth of 4m and a draught of 1.8m.
The aluminium ferries will be kifted out with flexible hybrid drivetrains, enabling them to enter and leave ports at speeds up to 8knots in zero-emission mode. The powertrain for each ferry will include: twin MTU 16V4000 M65L engines, rated 2,560kW apiece; two gearboxes; two electric motors; a baftery system; an MTU hybrid automation system; two variable-speed gensets; and two fixed-pitch propellers. In hybrid mode, when the vessels are transiting and using part of the engine power to recharge the batteries, each will be capable of a service speed of 28knots, increasing to 30knots max.
The Incat Crowther-designed ferries will accommodate seven crew members and 251 passengers apiece. The main deck is to be fitted with seating for 166 passengers, as well as five bathrooms and a kiosk, while the upper deck will seat 85 persons. Both cabins will feature luggage racks and overhead luggage bins. Onboard tank capacities will include 20,000litres of fuel oil, 1,500litres of fresh water and 2,000litres of sullage.
Classification of all 12 vessels is being handled by Italy’s RINA, which is expected to award the series the notations RINA C✠HSC A Mon – Passenger Ship, ✠UT-CCS, PMRITA. Liberty Lines CEO Gennaro Carlo Cotella comments: “We are making a sustainable investment in the renewal of our fleet, to achieve an emission-free future.”
