First Electric Ferry in Estonia to Feature Steerprop Propulsors

[By Steerprop]

Finnish marine propulsion specialist Steerprop will supply the latest version of its well-established contra-rotating propeller (CRP) technology to a fully electric ferry being built by Polish shipyard CRIST SA 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 also be the first to feature next generation of CRP technology, which further improves mechanical efficiency while delivering the excellent thrust in ice and open water for which the long-established CRP range is known.

Steerprop’s propulsion was selected for the project due to its ability to provide high thrust in ice, wind and open water conditions even with tight constraints on propeller diameter. The unique 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 optimized and can be deployed as part of diesel, hybrid or pure-electric drivechains.

The 95 metre-long 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 EUR 49.93 million. The project is co-funded by the European Union Modernisation Fund (EUR 28 million) and Estonia’s CO? quota trading mechanisms.