VESSEL REVIEW | Mahoroba – Hydrogen fuel cell-powered ferry demonstrator debuts in Japan
Japanese shipowner Iwatani Corporation has taken delivery of a new catamaran ferry designed to serve as a hydrogen fuel cell technology demonstrator.
Mahoroba (まほろば; “A nice place to live”) was designed jointly by Namura Shipbuilding and Setouchi Craft, the latter also being responsible for construction. The newbuild has an LOA of 33 metres (110 feet), a beam of eight metres (26 feet), a draught of only 1.1 metres (3.6 feet), a depth of 2.5 metres (8.2 feet), a gross tonnage of 177, and space for up to 150 passengers.
Operations promising low environmental impact
Iwatani said the vessel’s exterior design evokes, “an auspicious creature flying over open water,” and, “looking to the future,” in line with the project’s goal of promoting hydrogen as a future marine fuel.
The vessel is notable for its hydrogen fuel cell propulsion, which includes a 130kg hydrogen tank and drives two 226kW electric motors to deliver a maximum speed of 13 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots.
In addition to emitting no CO2 while underway, the hydrogen propulsion releases no odours and generates only minimal noise and vibration, making it ideal for operation near residential areas.
The vessel is also fitted with lithium-ion batteries and a fast charging system. Safety features include Fujikin shut-off valves installed near the hydrogen fuel supply system at the stern.
The superstructure contains the wheelhouse and the passenger cabin. Iwatani said the design of the interior space makes extensive use of curves to create an impression of water, turning the ship into a floating pavilion, while the white-based colour scheme creates a futuristic feel.
Well-crafted interior providing an ideal events venue
The entire front section is fitted with glass, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views inside as well as outside. A large projector is intended for use during onboard events. The second floor area also features curves as part of a design inspired by flowing water.
The cabin also has a counter featuring distinctive curves and lighting. It can also be used as a bar top to serve drinks during onboard events.
Even the wheelhouse is also stylishly designed with glass walls, allowing passengers to enjoy the view from the navigator’s perspective (passengers are prohibited from accessing the front section of the vessel, however). The wheelhouse electronics include a Furuno radar.
The interiors are air-conditioned and also feature a toilet as well as wheelchair-accessible areas.
Construction of Mahoroba was undertaken with financial support provided by Japanese R&D agency New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation. The design work on the vessel also included inputs from Kansai Electric Power and the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology.
The ferry made its official debut during Expo 2025 Osaka in Kansai, ferrying passengers between the exposition site in Yumeshima and the Nakanoshima area situated between Osaka Station and Dotonbori.
