Four vessels are destined for Grimaldi Lines, three for Finnlines and two for Minoan Lines. The orders for the engines, propulsion systems and scrubbers were booked by Wärtsilä in 2025, while the order for the hybrid electric system for the Finnlines vessels was booked in the first quarter of 2026.

All nine vessels will operate with Wärtsilä's fuel-flexible 46F engines, which are capable of running on sustainable fuels such as methanol. The engines are designed to deliver performance while keeping fuel options open as regulations and alternative-fuel availability evolve. Fuel flexibility is emerging as a critical element in the shipping industry's efforts to meet the decarbonisation targets set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). As part of the scope of supply, Wärtsilä's hybrid exhaust scrubber system will support operational flexibility and compliance with tightening regulations, while transverse thrusters will assist mooring operations.

In addition, the Finnlines vessels will feature a hybrid electric system designed to improve propulsion efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and support sustainable operations. Wärtsilä will also provide two gearboxes, two controllable pitch propellers (CPP) with shaft lines, and a Wärtsilä ProTouch remote propulsion control system for these vessels.

The project builds on collaboration between Grimaldi Group and Wärtsilä from the earliest design phase to align operational, technical and lifecycle priorities.

"Ferry operators face demanding operational requirements, from availability and efficiency to emissions compliance across variable routes. Through close cooperation with Grimaldi Group, we've taken a truly integrated approach to meet these needs. We will deliver future-proof solutions through engines capable of running on different fuels, along with cohesive packages of innovative, low emission technologies, to support the operational performance of these vessels today while enabling flexibility for the future," says Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä Marine & Executive Vice President at Wärtsilä Corporation.

Finnlines RoPax ferries serve the Helsinki, Finland – Travemünde, Germany route. Minoan Lines is one of the leading passenger ferry operators in Greece, while Grimaldi Lines provides maritime connections in Sardinia, Sicily, Spain, Greece and Tunisia. Wärtsilä will deliver the equipment for the nine ferries between 2026 and 2028, building on the company's longstanding cooperation with Grimaldi Group companies.

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