Vision for an electric transformation of one of Åland’s archipelago ferries

FerryAxFerries (Ålands Skärgårdsrederi Ab), owned by the Government of Åland and FinFerries, presents a development concept for the archipelago ferry ALFÅGELN. The vision illustrates how the vessel can be rebuilt into a modern, fully electric, and emission-free ship with higher capacity and improved operational efficiency.

The project has been developed in collaboration between AxFerries, FinFerries’ technical team, and the naval architect company Foreship, which has an office in Åland. The aim is to demonstrate realistic and cost-effective solutions for gradually renewing the archipelago fleet and creating a modern, sustainable transport structure with lower annual costs and more frequent service.

“ALFÅGELN is an icon in Åland’s archipelago traffic. Through this shared vision, we show how tradition and the future can come together in a vessel that is efficient, quiet, and completely emission-free,” says Håkan Fagerström, CEO of FinFerries and Chairman of the Board of AxFerries.

The plans include extending ALFÅGELN by six metres and widening the car deck. This would make it possible to maintain the same vehicle capacity as today, even without the current side platform decks. A port-side platform deck will be retained to provide extra capacity during peak season operations.

The bridge is proposed to be modernized with the latest navigation and operational safety technology - an important part of future-proofing the vessel. A new stern thruster will enhance manoeuvrability during harbour operations. For passengers, a new panoramic café is planned to improve comfort and make more efficient use of onboard space.

A central part of the vision is the transition to electric propulsion. With battery technology optimized for short routes, ALFÅGELN will be able to operate without emissions and with significantly lower noise levels. This will improve both environmental performance and the travel experience, while also reducing noise pollution in the archipelago.

The vision for ALFÅGELN is part of AxFerries’ long-term plan to electrify and modernize the entire Åland archipelago fleet. The goal is to establish a reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective transport solution that benefits passengers, operators, and the region as a whole.

The 1,469 GT ALFÅGELN was delivered from Norwegian builder Simek in 1990. The ferry’s current dimensions are a length overall of 52.7 metre and a beam of 12 metre. The present capacity is 50 cars and 244 passengers.

Oct 16 2025