Australian shipbuilder Austal and Gotlandsbolaget of Sweden have joined forces to construct a groundbreaking hydrogen-capable, high-speed ferry.
The construction contract, forming part of the Gotland Horizon X catamaran concept, underscores the commitment to innovation and sustainability in maritime transport. The high-speed catamaran, designed by Austal and to be constructed at the Austal Philippines shipyard, represents a fusion of cutting-edge technology and environmental stewardship.
The Gotland Horizon X catamaran, a high-speed aluminum vessel utilizing gas turbines in a combined cycle, is poised to transport up to 1,450 passengers, cargo, and vehicles between the Swedish mainland and the island of Gotland. With a length of 130 meters and a cruising speed of 35 knots, this ferry sets new standards for efficiency and performance in the maritime industry.
Austal’s incorporation of DeepMorpher AI technology in the design process underscores the commitment to energy efficiency and optimal hull performance. Through ongoing collaboration with Gotland Tech Development and supply chain partners, the design team continues to refine and optimize various attributes of the vessel, ensuring it meets the highest standards of power, load capacity, and speed.
The introduction of this multi-fuel, low-emission-powered catamaran aligns with Gotlandsbolaget’s ambitious goal of achieving climate-neutral crossings by 2045.
