Norwegian ferry operator Torghatten Nord plans to introduce the first of two delayed hydrogen-powered ferries on the Bodø–Røst–Værøy–Moskenes route across Vestfjorden in summer 2027, initially running on biofuel.
The company said Moskenes would undergo hydrogen testing and commissioning once the peak season is over. Sister vessel Røst is expected to be delivered in November 2027. Both ferries were originally due to enter service on October 1, 2025.
"The project has been significantly delayed, and we look forward to bringing the new ferries into service," said Torghatten technical director Eirik Olsen.
The hydrogen plant at Langstranda in Bodø, which is intended to bunker the ferries directly, has also been delayed.
"The factory is scheduled to be in full operation towards summer 2027," GreenH chief executive Morten Solberg Watle told NRK by email, adding that production would begin earlier during commissioning.
The operating contract with the Norwegian Public Roads Administration names hydrogen as the primary energy carrier and allows biodiesel as a secondary source when hydrogen is unavailable.
The administration has said dredging is required before the new ferries, which are longer and have a greater draught than the current vessels, can use the quay, with no date yet set.
The 120-car Ro-Pax ferries are capable of operating 85 per cent on hydrogen. Myklebust Verft holds the shipbuilding contract, with hulls built at a shipyard in Turkey and completion taking place in Gursken.