Finnish marine propulsion specialist Steerprop is to supply the latest version of its contra-rotating propeller (CRP) technology to a fully electric ferry being built by Polish shipyard Crist for the Estonian State Fleet.
The vessel, described as Estonia’s first fully electric passenger ferry, will be propelled by two Steerprop SP 25 CRP units featuring permanent magnet motor drives. The ferry will be the first to feature this next generation of CRP technology, designed to further improve mechanical efficiency while delivering high thrust in ice and open water.
Steerprop’s propulsion was selected for the project due to its ability to provide thrust in ice, wind and open water conditions even with tight constraints on propeller diameter. The configuration of the push and pull propellers on Steerprop CRP’s single shaftline mean that it can achieve higher thrust and efficiency than similarly sized single-propeller units – or similar thrust using less power, helping to reduce installed power, energy use and emissions.
Steerprop Cruise & Ferry Segment Director Markku Miinala said: “The latest Steerprop CRP development has resulted in a propulsor with unique efficiency and thrust performance, and one that offers an even greater performance boost for vessels operating in ice conditions. Steerprop is pleased to widen its installed base in Estonia, where we already operate four double-ended ferries with Steerprop CRP propulsors on the Saaremaa and Hiiumaa routes.”
The next generation of CRP introduces pressure lubrication as standard for smaller CRP applications. By removing immersion lubrication, mechanical losses are reduced, enabling an increase of around 3.5 percentage points in mechanical efficiency alongside superior fuel economy and performance. As with all CRP units, the next-generation propulsors are hydrodynamically optimised and can be deployed as part of diesel, hybrid or pure-electric drivechains.
The 95m ferry designed by LMG Marin will use renewable shore power, with electricity stored in a 3MWh battery system, alongside auxiliary biodiesel generators for severe weather and emergency operations. She will be classed to 1B Ice Class, enabling operation in ice of up to 60cm thick.
Steerprop’s propulsion equipment is scheduled for delivery in late 2027, with the vessel expected to enter operation in late 2028. The total value of the design and construction contract is €49.93m. The project is co-funded by the European Union Modernisation Fund (€28m) and Estonia’s CO₂ quota trading mechanisms.
Image: Estonia’s first fully-electric ferry (credit: LMG Marin)
