With the order placed in the first quarter of 2021, technology group, Wärtsilä will supply the main and auxiliary engines, in addition to the fuel storage and supply system for the vessel.
As the shipping industry moves towards lowering emissions, the use of LNG is becoming more and more commonplace. Containing no sulphur or particulate matter, LNG also emits low levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and 20% less carbon dioxide emissions than when using HFO fuel.
Wärtsilä are to fill an order requesting two Wärtsilä 34DF dual-fuel main engines, two Wärtsilä 20DF dual-fuel auxiliary engines, two Wärtsilä Gas Valve Units, and a Wärtsilä LNGPac fuel storage, supply, and control system. With the equipment delivery scheduled for Spring 2022, the ferry itself is anticipated to be delivered in 2023.
Commenting on the purchase, Luigi Genghi, Managing Director, Caronte & Tourist, said, “We are very familiar with Wärtsilä and rate both their products and their support very highly.”
“When the decision to operate primarily on LNG fuel was made, it became clear that Wärtsilä was the most experienced and qualified supplier to use.”
Able to accommodate 800 passengers and hold up to 115 cars on two vehicle decks, the 109.98 metre long vessel will mainly operate between Milazzo in Sicily and the Aeolian Islands.
Giammario Meloni, Senior Sales Manager, Wärtsilä Marine Power said, “This is our second project for the same owner and shipyard, and repeat orders are always an encouraging testimony of satisfaction.”
“Our reference list of ferries operating with the Wärtsilä 34DF engine is indeed impressive, and we are please dto add to it with this order.”
“The flexibility of our dual-fuel technology is important for ferry operators because of the importance of redundancy. Should, for any reason, LNG be not available, the engine can switch to a conventional fuel in milliseconds, and the ferry schedule remains uninterrupted.”