Damen Shipyards selects EST-Floattech’s Octopus High Energy battery for all-electric catamaran ferry

An electric fast ferry being designed and built by Damen Shipyards for Norden-Frisia will feature EST-Floattech’s latest Octopus High Energy battery system. The fully electric catamaran-style vessel is a completely new design from Damen, named the Electric Fast Ferry (EFF) 3209 or the E-Cat Ferry.

Developed to transport 150 passengers between Norddeich and the island of Norderney in Germany seven times a day, the 32m-long catamaran will be capable of speeds of up to 16kts, supported by EST-Floattech’s latest battery system, which can charge within 30 minutes. Furthermore, the ferry’s draft is limited to a maximum of 1.2m to ensure it can operate within the shallow waters along its service route.

Having evaluated performance and lifetime data based on the specified load profile of the E-Cat, EST-Floattech has decided on the size of the battery system. Royal van der Leun will be responsible for the boat’s electrical installation.

“It is satisfying to be part of a challenging and innovative project that contributes to a cleaner environment,” commented Jelle Meindertsma, sales manager at EST-Floattech. “In this case, an electric ferry that will be sailing in the Wadden Sea, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comes with strict design criteria. Our team worked diligently to ensure that the Octopus Series High Energy battery system met the requirements. The battery system will ensure that the ferry can sail at the needed speed and charge during stops without CO₂ emissions, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly transport solution.”

“We have already increased sustainability on land and two years ago we decided it was time to take a look at our fleet,” said Michael Garrelts, Norden-Frisia Marine superintendent. “For our fleet, we believe it is elementary that the battery system corresponds to the latest technology and safety standards, and that we can create a balanced power-to-weight ratio.”

Damen will construct the hull at its shipyard in Kozle in Poland. Once complete, it will be transported to Damen Shipyards Gorinchem in the Netherlands for outfitting. The anticipated delivery date to Norden-Frisia is May 2024.

For more on battery technology, please click here.