Wärtsilä to Supply Electric Propulsion Systems for Molslinjen Ferries

Technology company Wärtsilä has been contracted to deliver fully integrated electric propulsion systems with waterjets for two high-speed catamaran ferries being built for Danish operator Molslinjen.

The vessels, currently under construction at Incat’s shipyard in Tasmania, will feature Wärtsilä’s integrated electric propulsion and DC power conversion systems, as well as its energy management and automation platforms. The scope of supply also includes eight electric propulsion motors, waterjets, and the Wärtsilä ProTouch propulsion control system.

The ferries are intended for operation on Denmark’s Kattegat route and are scheduled to enter service in 2027 and 2028. Each vessel will measure 129 meters in length and 30.5 meters in width, with capacity for 1,483 passengers and 500 cars. Molslinjen expects the additions to expand overall route capacity by more than 25 percent.

“This is a major project that supports the ferry industry’s move towards more decarbonised operations. With these electric ferries built by Incat and powered by Wärtsilä’s electrification technology, we aim to remove thousands of tons of CO₂ emissions from Denmark’s climate footprint each year,” said Kristian Durhuus, CEO of Molslinjen.

Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä Marine and Executive Vice President of Wärtsilä Corporation, added, “Our partnership with Molslinjen and Incat not only brings electric vessels to the Kattegat route, but also continues our joint commitment in accelerating the industry’s path towards net-zero emissions shipping. Wärtsilä’s values and principles in shipping are deeply rooted in sustainability, innovation, and performance, and through our experience in vessel electrification, we have already delivered solutions for 150 hybrid-electric ships, with this number continuing to grow.”

Incat Tasmania CEO Stephen Casey noted, “We’re not just building ships – we are building the future. Large-scale, low-emission transport solutions are not only possible, but are ready now. Incat Tasmania has always been at the forefront of innovating and pioneering new technology and design. The vessels address the market’s needs and requirements by utilising batteries, making this a very viable option for owners and operators looking to increase the sustainability of their fleets. Wärtsilä is a key player in the success of this project, supporting our goal of large-scale, low-emission transport with a completely integrated propulsion package.”

The waterjet configuration, powered by eight electric motors, is designed to reduce weight, support shallow draft operation, and offer reliability, safety, and ease of maintenance. The integrated steering and reversing system is expected to enhance manoeuvrability with rapid response times. Wärtsilä plans to begin delivering the equipment to Incat in 2026.