The two hybrid double-end ferries equipped with battery and solar power technology destined for operation in Hong Kong have been classed by Bureau Veritas.
Designed by CoCo Yachts, a Dutch naval architect design and development company, the Urban Sprinters 1000 vessels will be operated by Sun Ferry Services Company Limited.
“BV is honoured to support the project from its inception, providing full plan approval and design support, and we are happy to help advance innovation that is much needed to achieve a carbon neutral and sustainable future,” said Alex Gregg-Smith, senior vice president & chief executive, North Asia and China, at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.
Low emission
Both Urban Sprinter 1000 ferries will be built by YaGuang Technology in Zhuhai, China and will have an aluminium hull and superstructure. The first vessel will be built with hybrid diesel-electric propulsion and will be zero emission when sailing within pier boundaries, as well as during berthing.
The second vessel will be built with diesel-electric propulsion. Both ferries will have a battery pack for overnight energy to avoid diesel generators running.
Each vessel will be fitted with four IMO tier III diesel generators, of which three will typically be in service, and one will be on standby. The service speed will be 16 knots. The vessels will also be equipped with four Azimuth L-type thrusters, each fitted with a PM electric motor.
The third deck will be an open area accessible to passengers for sightseeing purposes. The area will be partly covered by solar panels, which will help to reduce the vessel’s overall emissions.
When completed, they will transport around four million passengers a year between Central Pier and Cheung Chau Pier, in Hong Kong domestic waters.
The design and building of the vessel will be surveyed and certified by Bureau Veritas. All flag related items, including safety and stability will be delegated from Hong Kong Marine Department to BV.
The first Urban Sprinter 1000 hybrid is expected to be delivered in the second quarter of 2024, while the second vessel will be delivered in the first quarter of 2025.
