Wärtsilä will supply a range of propulsion solutions for nine newbuild ferry vessels under construction for Grimaldi Group fleets at the China Merchants Shipbuilding Industry Group Weihai Shipyard as part of Grimaldi’s fleet renewal programme which is centred around achieving decarbonised shipping operations.
Four vessels are destined for Grimaldi Lines, three for Finnlines and two for Minoan Lines, all with engines, propulsion systems and scrubbers by Wärtsilä. The Finnlines vessels will be equipped with hybrid electric systems.
All nine vessels will operate with Wärtsilä’s fuel-flexible, high-efficiency 46F engines. Designed to deliver strong performance today while keeping fuel options open as regulations and alternative-fuel availability evolve, the engines are capable of operating on sustainable fuels, such as methanol. This is seen as key, with fuel flexibility emerging as a critical element in the shipping industry’s efforts to meet the IMO decarbonisation targets. As part of the scope of supply, Wärtsilä’s hybrid exhaust scrubber system will ensure full operational flexibility and compliance with tightening regulations, whilst the transverse thrusters will support mooring operations.
In addition to the above scope, the Finnlines vessels will benefit from a comprehensive hybrid electric system designed to boost propulsion efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and support reliable and sustainable operations. Wärtsilä will provide two gearboxes, two CP propellers with shaft lines, and a Wärtsilä ProTouch remote propulsion control system. Together, this integrated power and propulsion system will enhance overall efficiency, deliver significant fuel savings, and contribute to lower emissions for the Finnlines vessels.
The project builds on early, close collaboration between Grimaldi Group and Wärtsilä from the earliest design phase to align operational, technical and lifecycle priorities.
Roger Holm, President, Wärtsilä Marine and EVP Wärtsilä Corporation, said: “Ferry operators face demanding operational requirements, from availability and efficiency to emissions compliance across variable routes. Through close cooperation with Grimaldi Group, we’ve taken a truly integrated approach to meet these needs. We will deliver future-proof solutions through engines capable of running on different fuels, along with cohesive packages of innovative, low emission technologies, to support the operational performance of these vessels today while enabling flexibility for the future.”
Finnlines ro-pax ferries serve the Helsinki, Finland – Travemünde, Germany route. Minoan Lines is one of the dominant passenger ferry operators in Greece, while Grimaldi Lines provides maritime connections in Sardinia, Sicily, Spain, Greece and Tunisia. Wärtsilä will deliver the equipment for the nine ferries between 2026 and 2028. The project builds on Wärtsilä’s long-standing cooperation with Grimaldi Group companies, including Finnlines, Minoan Lines and Grimaldi Lines.
Image: Wärtsilä will supply a range of propulsion solutions for nine newbuild ferry vessels under construction for Grimaldi Group fleets (credit: Grimaldi Group)
