Schottel powers new Pole Star

Built by Spanish yard Gondan and officially named Pole Star on 21 January 2026 by HRH The Princess Royal, the vessel replaces the fourth NLB ship to carry the same name. Her predecessor had reached the end of its economic life after years of service around Scotland and the Isle of Man.

At the heart of the new ship is a propulsion package from Schottel, centred on twin RudderPropellers and two TransverseThrusters.

“A Schottel solution was offered by Gondan, who won the contract to build Pole Star following an open tender process, as part of the package,” explained Phil Day, director of operations with the Northern Lighthouse Board.

“NLB is delighted to be using this equipment and entering into a relationship that will last the lifetime of the vessel.”

The propulsion units are installed in an embedded L-Drive configuration, eliminating the need for an upper gearbox. The result, according to the builder, is improved mechanical efficiency, lower fuel consumption and reduced vibration.

The thrusters also support the ship’s dynamic positioning system, enabling it to maintain station in challenging weather while technicians work on aids to navigation.

Environmental safeguards include a DNV-approved seal monitoring system designed to prevent oil contamination. Compared with her predecessor, the new Pole Star also offers improved seakeeping, upgraded crew accommodation and additional capabilities, including towing, firefighting and hydrographic survey work.