The Finnish marine fuel systems specialist will supply complete methanol fuel supply systems for two GONDAN-built hydrographic research vessels being constructed for Germany’s BSH
Auramarine has secured a contract with Spanish shipbuilder GONDAN Shipbuilders to supply complete methanol fuel supply systems for two new hydrographic research vessels, Wega and Deneb, being built for Germany’s Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (Bundesamt für Seeschifffahrt und Hydrographie – BSH).
The systems are scheduled for delivery between November 2027 and February 2029, supporting Germany’s programme to modernise its research fleet and maintain continuous operations in the North Sea and Baltic Sea.
Designed in collaboration with Seaplace Engineering, the two vessels will each measure approximately 70 metres in length, with a 15-metre beam. Their propulsion systems will be configured to operate on green methanol, while the vessels will also be certified to the Blue Angel environmental standard and meet Silent-R requirements for reduced underwater noise.
Research operations in harsh marine environments depend on reliable onboard systems, and stable fuel supply is critical for keeping the vessels at sea.
Auramarine’s complete methanol fuel supply system is designed to ensure the safe bunkering, transfer, handling, and supply of methanol onboard a vessel. The scope includes integrated control and monitoring systems and an emergency shutdown system to ensure safe and reliable operation. Auramarine will design each system to meet the specific requirements of the vessel and its engine configuration. The delivery also covers testing, sea trials and commissioning. The systems will enable BSH to operate the vessels on green methanol, supporting lower emissions during research operations. Auramarine will also provide methanol system training for the crew, ensuring safe use from the first day of operation.
“Methanol has established its place in the marine fuel portfolio, and a growing number of vessel types are now being designed to run on it. Wega and Deneb are good examples of this. We are pleased to be part of this demanding project, where our systems will operate in a challenging marine research environment,” says John Bergman, CEO, Auramarine.
“The construction of Wega and Deneb is a particularly exciting challenge, bringing together innovative design, advanced technology and ambitious sustainability goals. At GONDAN, we are fully committed to ensuring the successful delivery of these vessels through rigorous planning, close coordination with our partners and constant attention to detail throughout the entire build process. We are proud to be part of a project that will contribute to the future of environmentally responsible maritime research.” Iván Artime, Factory Director, GONDAN
