Brittany Ferries Launches Next-Gen Hybrid Ships for Cleaner Seas
Brittany Ferries is set to revolutionise maritime travel with new hybrid ships designed to slash emissions and boost energy efficiency. Working with Wärtsilä, the engine and battery whizzes, these vessels will use multiple integrated systems to optimise energy in real-time while sailing.
Green Tech Promises 15% Cut in Emissions
Wärtsilä claims the combo of hybrid power, smarter energy use, and shore-side plug-in tech could cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 15% compared to traditional diesel engines. That’s a big step for greener sea travel.
StenaRoRo is building three hybrid ships featuring Wärtsilä’s latest technology. Brittany Ferries has already ordered two, including the freshly named Saint-Malo, which will service the busy St Malo to Portsmouth route starting in 2024. Another hybrid vessel, still unnamed, will soon join on the popular Caen to Portsmouth line, replacing the ageing Bretagne and Normandie ferries.
Industry Leaders Back Hybrid Future
“Brittany Ferries is proud to be leading the way in sustainable shipping,” said Christophe Mathieu, CEO. “Hybrid tech is powering our fleet renewal and will soon be joined by LNG-powered vessels. Ports like St Malo and Portsmouth will see benefits with shore-side power as plug-in infrastructure expands.”
StenaRoRo’s MD Per Westling added, “We want to lead decarbonisation in shipping. Hybridisation means our ships can adapt to future fuels, bigger batteries, and even solar or wind power.”
Wärtsilä Powers Hybrid Revolution
The marine experts at Wärtsilä aren’t just supplying engines and batteries – they’re also providing gearboxes and propellers for these cutting-edge vessels. CEO Hakan Agnevall said the ships’ large battery setups allow zero-emission manoeuvres in ports, even in poor weather.
“While berthed, shore power charges the batteries, cutting emissions to near zero,” Agnevall explained. “This order cements Wärtsilä’s lead in hybrid maritime tech.”
With these game-changing vessels on the horizon, Brittany Ferries is sailing full steam ahead into a greener future for UK and French ferry crossings.
