RoPax ferry boosts powerful propulsion
A Danish vessel designer has unveiled a mega RoPax ferry with a powerful eco-propulsion setup including battery power.
Knud E. Hansen’s 154-meter RoPax ferry has a service speed of 25 knots and can operate close to optimum engine load even at slow speeds due to its diesel electric propulsion plant and azimuthing pods.
The four engines have a combined power of approximately 48 Megawatts and are fuelled by marine diesel oil (MDO). There are also two tunnel thrusters located at the bow which, combined with the azipods, allow the vessel to move laterally without any forward or aft motion to assist with mooring.
There is also a large battery bank to power the vessel while dockside, allowing for zero emissions in port.
“Knud E. Hansen aims to achieve the highest level of survivability with strict adherence to Safe Return to Port (SRtP) requirements through the inclusion of redundant, segregated power and propulsion systems as well as passenger safe havens and an auxiliary wheelhouse,” stated the company.
The ferry can transport up to 1500 passengers and 440 cars. The vessel also boasts an additional 657m of lane for trucks and trailers.
Unique to this vessel is a dedicated heli-pad located on the top deck.
The vessel is certified as a EuroClass Type A ship and is fully SOLAS compliant.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
