Order signed for first LNG-fuelled ferry for the Mediterranean

Italian shipowner Caronte and Tourist has signed a new contract for a large double-ended ferry designed by LMG Marin.

The LMG 290-DEG design, which is 133 metres long and 21.5 metres in beam, will have capacity for 290 cars on two vehicle decks, and 1,500 passengers. The propulsion will be based on a gas-electric system using three dual-fuel engines.

The vessel will be built by Sefine Shipyard in Turkey. When delivered in 2018, the LMG 290-DEG design will be the first ferry in the Mediterranean Sea to operate on LNG fuel.

The vessel has been developed in close dialogue with the shipowner in order to accommodate their challenging operational requirements whilst meeting a strict low fuel consumption target. She is optimised to operate across the Strait of Messina between Villa San Giovanni and Messina in Sicily, which is an area prone to very high current. Thanks to her EU Class B certificate she will also be able to operate on more open routes such as to the Aeolian Islands.


Alex Baird

Alex Baird is the Managing Director of Baird Maritime