Bluferries Unveils New Hybrid Ship for Clean and Green Sea Travel

Bluferries Launches New Hybrid Ship for Clean Sea Travel

Bluferries, a company of the FS Italiane Group, has launched a groundbreaking hybrid Ro-Ro passenger ship, named Sikania II Hybrid. This new ship, designed by C.T.E. Perdikaris in Greece and built under the supervision of RINA, is set to improve travel between Villa San Giovanni (Reggio Calabria) and Messina, Italy. The new vessel is a major step towards cleaner and more eco-friendly sea transport, making it easier for passengers and vehicles to travel while reducing pollution.

What Makes Sikania II Hybrid Special?

The key feature of Sikania II Hybrid is its hybrid propulsion system, which combines traditional diesel engines with electric power. This system helps reduce carbon emissions and fuel consumption, making the ship much more environmentally friendly. The hybrid engine allows the ship to run on diesel while out at sea and switch to electric power when approaching the port. This means zero emissions during loading and unloading, making the ports cleaner and healthier.

This advanced system also makes the ship more energy-efficient. The ship’s electric motors are connected to batteries that can store up to 1 MWh of energy. These batteries are charged during the trip and provide power for electric propulsion, especially when entering and exiting the port. Solar panels onboard provide additional energy for the ship’s services, helping further reduce its carbon footprint.

Design and Capacity

Measuring 105 meters long, the Sikania II Hybrid can carry up to 22 heavy vehicles or 125 cars and 400 passengers. This makes it large enough for busy routes but still sleek and modern in design. The ship is equipped with four azimuth thrusters, powered by both diesel engines and electric motors. This setup ensures smooth sailing and reliable performance on every trip.

The ship was built with passenger comfort in mind, offering plenty of space and modern amenities to make the journey enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with a vehicle or as a foot passenger, the Sikania II Hybrid provides a clean, efficient, and comfortable way to cross the Strait of Messina.

A Step Towards Greener Travel

Bluferries’ investment in the Sikania II Hybrid reflects their commitment to greener and more sustainable maritime transport. According to Bluferries CEO Giuseppe Sciumè, this new hybrid vessel is just the beginning of the company’s efforts to offer cleaner transportation options. Bluferries plans to expand its fleet of hybrid ships in the future, providing more eco-friendly travel choices between Calabria and Sicily.

Sabrina De Filippis, CEO of Mercitalia Logistics, emphasized the importance of this new ship for reducing pollution. She noted that the Sikania II Hybrid will cut CO2 emissions by 50%, making it a huge win for the environment. The vessel is expected to start regular service in early 2025, with testing scheduled for the coming months.

Pioneers in Green Technology

C.T.E. Perdikaris, the company responsible for designing the ship, is known for its innovative solutions in shipbuilding. The CEO, Theano Perdikaris, expressed pride in delivering a ship that not only meets modern environmental standards but also sets a new benchmark for sustainability. This project demonstrates the potential of hybrid technology in reducing pollution from maritime travel.

RINA, the international organization overseeing the project, also highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving change within the industry. Giosuè Vezzuto, RINA’s Marine Executive Vice President, praised the partnership between Bluferries and C.T.E. Perdikaris. He said that this ship represents a significant step toward decarbonization and cleaner maritime practices.

The Future of Green Shipping

The Sikania II Hybrid is a testament to the maritime industry’s shift towards more sustainable practices. With its hybrid engine, energy-efficient design, and reduced emissions, this new vessel sets a high standard for future ships. As it begins its service between Calabria and Sicily, passengers will benefit from a cleaner, quieter, and more comfortable travel experience. The launch of this ship marks a new era in eco-friendly sea transport, making it easier for people to travel while protecting the environment.

Bluferries and its partners have shown that investing in green technology can lead to better, cleaner transportation options. The Sikania II Hybrid is just the first of many steps towards a more sustainable future in maritime travel.