High-speed H2-fuelled Baltic catamaran project advances

The project concerns the development of a design of a 130-meter long high-speed catamaran. The announcement did not clarify how the catamaran would be powered, noting that the vessel would be capable of operating on different fossil-free fuels, including hydrogen.  

The intention is for a construction order to be placed for the Horizon X by 2025. The company expects the Horizon X or a larger alternative design, Horizon, to enter into service by 2030. The company has a target of achieving net zero emissions on crossings to Gotland by 2045. 

“This is an important step in our climate journey. We are working to develop the ships of the future, and in 2022 presented the second ship concept in our Horizon series, Gotland Horizon X. It is a high-speed catamaran that will be able to run on fossil-free fuels, and which we believe will be an excellent complement in Gotland traffic”, says Håkan Johansson, CEO of Gotlandsbolaget.

Gotland Horizon X will be able to go at 35 knots, carry 1,650 passengers and have space for 450 cars. The high speed would allow the catamaran to serve the crossing between Sweden and Visby in Gotland to under three hours. 

“The letter of intent with Gotlandsbolaget confirms that Austal is ready to design and build a 130 meter long high-speed catamaran that can run on hydrogen, helping us on the journey towards zero emissions,” says Paddy Gregg, CEO of Austal.

“Austal develops hulls that are optimized for different types of fuels and propulsion, including hydrogen and electricity. We offer solutions for shipping companies that need high-speed vessels and look forward to working together with Gotlandsbolaget to develop a new, exciting design with high quality”, Paddy Gregg added.