Wärtsilä tech chosen for Wasaline LNG-biogas ferry

Finnish technology group Wärtsilä has been contracted to provide an integrated package of products, systems, and solutions for a new LNG/biogas Wasaline RoPax ferry.

NLC Ferry operates the Wasaline service between Vaasa, Finland and Umeå, Sweden, and the new ferry being built by Rauma Marine Constructions in Finland, featuring Wärtsilä technology, is scheduled for delivery in May 2021.

The vessel will feature a hybrid propulsion solution incorporating four Wärtsilä 31DF dual-fuel engines capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and biogas.

Wärtsilä said it will also supply the LNG storage, supply and control systems, as well as the thrusters, catalysators, controls, and the integrated electrical and automation systems.

Wärtsilä’s equipment supply is augmented by a 10-year service agreement, as well as an agreement that allows Wärtsilä to utilise the vessel as an R&D test platform and technology demonstrator, the statement reads.

The new ship will accommodate 800 passengers and will have 1500 lane metres available for trucks and passenger vehicles.