Austal Begins Construction of Groundbreaking Ferry Horizon X
Austal Limited has officially launched the construction of its largest vessel to date, the Horizon X, during a ceremony in the Philippines. The event, hosted by Austal Asia President Wayne Murray, was attended by key executives from both Austal and Gotlandsbolaget, including CEO Paddy Gregg and Björn Nilsson. This milestone marks a significant step in the partnership between the two companies and highlights their commitment to advancing sustainable ferry solutions.
Significance of the Horizon X Project
The cutting of the first plate for the Horizon X ferry signifies a pivotal moment for Austal, reflecting the company’s shipbuilding expertise and the growing market confidence in its capabilities. CEO Paddy Gregg emphasized the importance of this project in promoting sustainable commercial ferry solutions. “Today’s plate cutting for Horizon X is a proud moment for the Austal team in the Philippines and across the Austal Group,” he stated. “It represents the first major step in bringing this exciting new vessel to life for Gotlandsbolaget.”
The Horizon X is a state-of-the-art, hydrogen-ready high-speed catamaran ferry, designed to accommodate up to 1,500 passengers and 400 vehicles. It features an innovative multi-fuel design, incorporating a combined cycle propulsion system that utilizes both gas and steam turbines, along with waste heat recovery technology. This design aims to redefine efficiency and sustainability within the ferry industry.
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Gotlandsbolaget CEO Björn Nilsson expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating that the commencement of production is a significant milestone for the company. “We are pleased to see construction underway and to celebrate this moment alongside Austal and the skilled shipbuilders here in Balamban,” he remarked. The Horizon X is a crucial investment in Gotlandsbolaget’s future capabilities, combining speed, capacity, and sustainability.
Construction Timeline and Environmental Commitment
The Horizon X ferry is part of Gotlandsbolaget’s innovative Horizon X program and is set to be constructed using lightweight “green aluminium,” produced through energy-efficient processes to minimize embodied carbon. The vessel is scheduled for delivery in mid-2028, with hull fabrication expected to commence in the first half of 2026.
Once operational, the Horizon X will significantly enhance transportation between the Swedish mainland and the island of Gotland, reducing crossing times and supporting Gotlandsbolaget’s long-term climate-neutral objectives. This project not only represents a technological advancement in ferry design but also underscores the commitment of both Austal and Gotlandsbolaget to sustainable maritime practices.
The plate cutting ceremony marks the formal start of the build activity for Horizon X at Austal Philippines, a key commercial shipbuilding center that has delivered over 20 vessels to operators worldwide since 2012. This collaboration between Austal and Gotlandsbolaget is poised to set new standards in the ferry industry.
