Wärtsilä has secured a contract to supply engines and propulsion solutions for nine new ferry vessels under construction for the Grimaldi Group. These vessels are being built at the China Merchants Shipbuilding Industry Group Weihai Shipyard. Four of the new ferries will join Grimaldi Lines, three will operate for Finnlines, and two for Minoan Lines. Wärtsilä is set to deliver the equipment for these vessels between 2026 and 2028.
All nine ferries will be equipped with Wärtsilä's 46F engines. The manufacturer highlights these engines as "fuel-flexible," emphasizing their capability to operate on sustainable fuels, including methanol. This development supports the broader industry trend towards adopting cleaner energy sources to reduce emissions.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this signifies Grimaldi Group's commitment to modernizing its fleet with more environmentally friendly vessels. The use of fuel-flexible engines, particularly those compatible with methanol, suggests a move towards reduced carbon footprints on these routes. While there's no immediate impact on rates or capacity, it indicates a long-term investment in sustainable shipping, which could eventually contribute to greener supply chain options and compliance with future environmental regulations.
