Electric vessels are becoming larger, wider-ranging and faster. This fine example of that new breed is operating in Spain's Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea. Its owner, Balearia, is very experienced and a cautious investor. So, the purchase of this impressive electric steel Ro-Pax ferry was obviously very carefully researched. It is certainly a sign of things to come.
Cap de Barbaria serves a vital role as a lifeline ferry between Formentera and Ibiza Islands in the Balearics and the Spanish mainland, transporting both passengers and vehicles including cars and lorries. As the vessel's typical sailing distances are short, the onboard spaces also include outdoor seating areas that are open to passengers on days of clear weather.
Among the vessel's most notable features are its hybrid electric propulsion system consisting of azimuthing motors, generators, and lithium-ion batteries that are also capable of shoreside charging. In addition to delivering service speeds of up to 14 knots, the propulsion, particularly the batteries, can supply up to 12 hours of hotel load. An intelligent management system is also fitted to allow for the more optimal use of available power.
Armon also made the ferry hydrogen-ready from the outset, ensuring its suitability for the future installation of a fuel cell to help lower emissions. This is in line with the owner's aim of having the vessel be used for testing green hydrogen propulsion and storage technologies in addition to transporting passengers and vehicles.
Cap de Barbaria is just one vessel in the string of deliveries that Armon completed in 2023 to various customers in the marine bunkering, fishing, and emergency services sectors to name a few. Progress has fortunately continued well into the current year, as indicated by the company having completed two fast ferries for an Italian operator and by construction underway on new research vessels for clients in Spain, Ireland, Iceland, and even as far as New Zealand.
