New propulsion gives life to ageing ferry

MV Sengerema has been fitted with two Schottel rudder propellers type SRP 90 to replace the last system, which had been in use for 30 years.

The vessel crosses the southern part of Lake Victoria, which is the largest lake in Africa and a vital source of water and fish for around 30 million people.

Every day, 40 ferries travel between the three countries, transporting people and cars, and SV Sengerema is one of them.

Songoro Marine Transport Boatyard chose Schottel’s propulsion units, having worked with the German company for several years. 

The new machinery could be adapted to the existing vessel structure, which is possible because of the customised concept, said Michael Heibel, Team Manager Modernisation & Conversion with Schottel.

“That meant we were able to keep the effort as low as possible, which translated into minimal downtime for the customer,” he said. “As a result of this solution, the operator not only benefits from an efficient propulsion system right now but from reliable service in the future.”