Battery-electric catamarans for Kattegat route to feature Wärtsilä waterjet propulsion

The scope of supply from Wärtsilä includes the integrated electric propulsion system, DC power conversion, energy management and automation systems, eight electric propulsion motors and waterjets, together with the Wärtsilä ProTouch propulsion control system. The package is designed to enable smooth, efficient and emission-free operation.

The ferries will be deployed on Molslinjen’s Kattegat service, representing a significant step forward in Denmark’s decarbonisation of ferry transport. Kristian Durhuus, CEO of Molslinjen, said: “This is a major project that supports the ferry industry’s move towards more decarbonised operations. With these electric ferries built by Incat and powered by Wärtsilä’s electrification technology, we aim to remove thousands of tonnes of CO₂ emissions from Denmark’s climate footprint each year.”

Roger Holm, president of Wärtsilä Marine and executive vice president of Wärtsilä Corporation, noted: “Our partnership with Molslinjen and Incat not only brings electric vessels to the Kattegat route, but also continues our joint commitment in accelerating the industry’s path towards net-zero emissions shipping. Through our experience in vessel electrification, we have already delivered solutions for 150 hybrid-electric ships, with this number continuing to grow.”

Each ferry will measure 129 metres in length with a beam of 30.5 metres, providing capacity for 1,483 passengers and 500 cars. The new tonnage will increase total capacity on the Kattegat service by over 25%, with delivery expected in 2027 and 2028.

Incat Tasmania CEO Stephen Casey commented: “We’re not just building ships – we are building the future. Large-scale, low-emission transport solutions are not only possible, but are ready now. Wärtsilä is a key player in the success of this project, supporting our goal of large-scale, low-emission transport with a completely integrated propulsion package.”

The eight waterjet configuration will offer low weight, shallow draft operation, and high manoeuvrability with integrated steering and reversing for rapid response times. Designed for maximum propulsion efficiency, the system benefits from reduced power density per jet, ensuring greater overall efficiency. Wärtsilä’s equipment deliveries to the yard are scheduled to begin in 2026