The vessel, described as Estonia’s first fully electric passenger ferry, will be propelled by two Steerprop SP 25 CRP units featuring permanent magnet motor drives. The ferry will also be the first to feature next generation of CRP technology, which further improves mechanical efficiency while delivering the excellent thrust in ice and open water for which the long-established CRP range is known. Steerprop states this in a press release.

Steerprop’s propulsion was selected for the project due to its ability to provide high thrust in ice, wind and open water conditions even with tight constraints on propeller diameter. The configuration of the push and pull propellers on Steerprop CRP’s single shaftline mean that it can achieve higher thrust and efficiency than similarly sized single-propeller units – or similar thrust using less power, helping to reduce installed power, energy use and emissions.

The next generation of CRP introduces pressure lubrication as standard for smaller CRP applications. By removing immersion lubrication, mechanical losses are reduced, enabling an increase of around 3.5% in mechanical efficiency alongside improved fuel economy and performance. As with all CRP units, the next-generation propulsors are hydrodynamically optimized and can be deployed as part of diesel, hybrid or pure-electric drive chains.

The 95-metre-long ferry, designed by LMG Marin, will use renewable shore power, with electricity stored in a 3MWh battery system, alongside auxiliary biodiesel generators for severe weather and emergency operations. The ferry will be classed to 1B Ice Class, enabling operation in ice of up to 60cm thick.

Steerprop's propulsion equipment is scheduled for delivery in late 2027, with the vessel expected to enter operation in late 2028. The total value of the design and construction contract is EUR 49.93 million. The project is co-funded by the European Union Modernisation Fund (EUR 28 million) and Estonia’s CO2 quota trading mechanisms.

Read also: Estonian State Fleet signs contract with CRIST S.A. to build Estonia’s first fully electric ferry

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