Holland Shipyards Group Delivers Hybrid Ferry

Holland Shipyards Group recently delivered a newbuild hybrid ferry Gaarden to Schlepp- und Fährgesellschaft Kiel (SFK) in Germany. The vessel will operate as a cycle- and footferry within the waters of the Kieler Fjord.

Gaarden, measuring 32.4 by 8.8 meters, is equipped with a hybrid drivetrain that can be powered by either generators or by means of a battery bank. The battery system will be used for sailing within the city center.

The order contract for the vessel signed in May 2019 includes an option for up to three additional sister vessels.

Holland Shipyards Group notes its orderbook contains several variations of electric ferries, including another ferry for SFK: a fully-electric vessel named Düsternbrook.

The shipbuilder says it has found batteries to be an ideal solution for the ferry market, but adds it is also investigating other ccean and renewable technologies and is involved in its first hydrogen project.