Austal wins H2-ready ferry deal

Part of Gotlandsbolaget’s ‘Horizon X’ program, the ferry will be the largest vessel ever constructed by Austal, featuring a combined cycle propulsion system with both gas and steam turbines – a first for high-speed craft globally.

“Horizon X is an incredibly exciting project that is going to re-define commercial ferry capabilities, with a multi-fuel and hydrogen-capable combined cycle powerplant and a classleading, efficient hull design,” said Austal Limited chief executive, Paddy Gregg.

“The flexible fuel technology demonstrated in Horizon X is leading the transition to decarbonisation of commercial ferries.”

The high-speed ROPAX catamaran, capable of carrying up to 1,500 passengers and 400 vehicles plus cargo, will be designed by Austal and constructed at their Philippines shipyard, with work set to begin in the first half of 2026 and completed by mid-2028.

The vessel will incorporate green aluminium, produced using energy-efficient technologies that reduce carbon emissions.

“Horizon X is not only designed for speed and efficiency but also for sustainability, as it incorporates cutting-edge green technology, including a hydrogen-ready, highly efficient gas turbine propulsion system,” said Gotlandsbolaget’s chief executive, Håkan Johansson.

Austal and Gotlandsbolaget first unveiled plans for the ferry design in April 2023, highlighting its ability to operate on multiple fuel types, including hydrogen.

Over the following months, collaboration with technology providers led to the development of a unique propulsion system that reuses engine exhaust to enhance propulsion and minimise emissions.

In October 2024, the project received approval from the DNV classification society, confirming compliance with global safety standards for gas-fuelled vessels.