During the annual Shippax “Ferry Shipping Conference”, which was held on board Grandi Navi Veloci’s La Superba, April 5-7, 2017, the German-Danish ferry operator Scandlines received once again an esteemed Shippax Award. In 2014, Scandlines was awarded for the conversion of the ferry Prinsesse Benedikte from traditional diesel power to the innovative hybrid propulsion system.
This year, the ferry operator receives the award for its new hybrid ferry Berlin
In May and December 2016, Scandlines inserted two new hybrid ferries on the Rostock-Gedser route between Germany and Denmark. For the first time in history, two new ferries were especially designed for the route as Scandlines wanted to give the customers a special maritime experience on board as well as increase the effectiveness of the service.
During the development, Scandlines put large effort into hull and propulsion on the new vessels to improve the shallow water performance, maneuverability and fuel efficiency.
The two new ferries are operated by the Scandlines’ hybrid propulsion system combining traditional diesel power with electric battery power. This enables the ferry to optimise its fuel consumption by adjusting its engine output, and at the same time there is a redundant power supply in case one of the diesel engines stops unintentionally. Along with other optimising initiatives, the fuel consumption of the vessels has been reduced to almost one third per crossing per car compared to the former ferries on the route.
Passenger areas
Passenger areas are inspired by nature and the countryside, and in the spacious light rooms a spectacular view of the sea awaits the passengers. The Scandlines Buffet in the front of the ferry seats more than 300 persons as does the FoodXpress in the middle of the vessel, which also offers access to the large and modern Onboardshop. The BerlinXpresso situated on the upper deck is decorated in the colours of the beach and has direct access to the open sun deck.
An independent jury consisting of dedicated shipping experts appoints the winner of the Shippax Award which is considered the most prestigious trade award in the combined ferry, ro-ro and cruise industry.
“Scandlines is proud that this internationally acclaimed organisation has chosen to assign M/V Berlin the prestigious award. The jury particularly emphasised our choice of hybrid propulsion system, Berlin’s optimised hull and the unique and modern design of the passenger areas, “says CCO at Scandlines, Morten Haure-Petersen.
Berlin and the sister ferry Copenhagen were completed by the Danish yard FAYARD A/S. The French architectural office AIA architects developed the design and interior of the passenger areas.
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