Gotlandsbolaget and Austal commissioned the construction of a ferry with the aim of developing carbon-neutral travel and sustainable solutions through new technologies, which was called the Horizon X project .
The two companies announced plans in April 2023 to develop a 130-metre high-speed multi-fuel catamaran, with the flexibility to operate on a variety of fuel types, including hydrogen.
Since then, the lines reported that they have collaborated with technology providers around the world to select the preferred main equipment and define the system arrangements. This has included the development of a unique propulsion mechanism that reuses engine exhaust gases to contribute to the vessel’s propulsion and reduce emissions. In October 2024, the project was granted approval in principle by DNV.
“Horizon X is an incredibly exciting project that will redefine the capabilities of commercial ferries, with a hydrogen and multi-fuel capable combined cycle power plant and a class-leading, efficient hull design,” said Austal CEO Paddy Gregg .
The company says the design will feature a unique, highly efficient combined-cycle propulsion system that includes both gas and steam turbines, a first for a high-speed vessel. The gas turbines will be used in Horizon X’s propulsion train and are designed to run on multiple types of alternative, fossil-free fuels. It will be a multi-fuel vessel, and the design is prepared to convert to hydrogen when hydrogen production becomes commercially available.
The companies stressed that combustive capabilities will better prepare the vessel while there are still major uncertainties about what alternative fuels will be available to the maritime sector. To minimise energy requirements and achieve high efficiency, the companies highlight that much work has been done to develop energy-efficient hulls, minimise weight, optimise onboard energy consumption and streamline operations and flows throughout the ship.
“Shipping needs to change, and reducing the climate footprint of travel and transport to and from Gotland is of great importance for the development and attractiveness of the island,” said Håkan Johansson, CEO of Gotlandsbolaget .
“The construction of Horizon X is a crucial step on our path towards climate-neutral voyages. At the same time, the ship will offer the same efficient voyage times as today and a new, modern onboard experience,” he added.
The ferry is designed to carry up to 1,500 passengers and 400 cars at speeds of up to 29 knots. It will be able to make the crossing between mainland Sweden and Gotland in just over three hours. It is planned to operate during the peak summer travel season, as well as in spring and autumn.
Austal values the contract at between USD 168 and 175 million. The vessel will be built at the company’s shipyard in the Philippines, with work to begin in 2026. The hull will be constructed from aluminium and, where possible, environmentally friendly material will be chosen for construction, meaning that approximately 60% of that part of the vessel will be built using renewable energy.
Following delivery in mid-2028, the ship will set sail for Gotland. The company says the exact timing of its entry into service has not yet been determined, but it will be on its way in spring 2029.