Austal has secured a contract worth approximately A$275 million (US$172.6 million) for the construction of a 130-meter multi-fuel ferry under Gotlandsbolaget’s Horizon X program.
The high-speed ROPAX catamaran, expected to be Austal’s largest vessel, will feature a combined cycle propulsion system incorporating both gas and steam turbines. Designed to carry up to 1,500 passengers, cargo, and 400 vehicles, the ferry will be built at the Austal Philippines shipyard.
Construction is set to commence in the first half of 2026, using green aluminum, with delivery scheduled for mid-2028.
Austal CEO Paddy Gregg highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “Horizon X is an incredibly exciting project that is going to redefine commercial ferry capabilities, with a multi-fuel and hydrogen-capable combined cycle powerplant and a class-leading, efficient hull design. The flexible fuel technology demonstrated in Horizon X is leading the transition to decarbonization of commercial ferries, and we’re proud to be at the forefront, partnering with Gotlandsbolaget, to deliver this industry-leading new ferry.”
Gotlandsbolaget CEO Håkan Johansson added, “Thanks to the great collaboration between Gotland Tech Development and Austal, we can now move forward in supplementing our existing fleet of larger passenger and cargo vessels with a high-speed, multi-fuel catamaran, which is also hydrogen-ready.”
Austal and Gotlandsbolaget first revealed plans for the 130-meter multi-fuel ferry design in April 2023, emphasizing its ability to operate on a variety of fuel types, including hydrogen. Since then, both companies have collaborated with technology providers to select key equipment and define system arrangements. A unique propulsion system has been developed that repurposes engine exhaust to enhance propulsion efficiency and reduce emissions.
In October 2024, the project received approval in principle from DNV, confirming the vessel design’s compliance with rules for gas-fueled ship installations (hydrogen) and the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low Flashpoint Fuels.