Torghatten Nord orders two LNG powered Ro-Pax from Vard

Vard has secured contracts for the construction of two LNG powered car- and passenger ferries for Torghatten Nord in Norway. The total contract value amounts to approximately NOK600 million (US$71 million).

The new Ro-Pax ferries are designed for environmentally friendly operations in the Norwegian fjords, with a total capacity that is able to accommodate up to 180 cars and 550 passengers and crew. The ferries are designed by Multi Maritime and will measure 130 metres in length with a beam of 20.7 metres, and will have a speed of approximately 18 knots.

Delivery of the ferries is scheduled from Vard Brevik in Norway in Q3 2018 and Q4 2018 respectively. The hulls of the vessels will be built by Vard Braila in Romania. They will be equipped with hybrid gas-electric propulsion with battery systems to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, meeting the latest requirements for energy efficiency.

The ferries are intended to be used on the Halhjem-Sandvikvåg crossing, where Torghatten Nord has been awarded a five-year contract with the Norwegian government.


Andrew Baird

Experienced geologist and seabed mining entrepreneur, Andrew reviews cutting edge technology from around the world across a wide spectrum of industries, and considers their potential applications in the work boat world.