Polish shipyard CRIST SA will integrate two next-generation Steerprop contra-rotating propeller units into Estonia’s first fully electric passenger ferry
Finnish marine propulsion specialist Steerprop will supply its latest contra-rotating propeller (CRP) technology for a fully electric passenger ferry being built by Polish shipyard CRIST SA for the Estonian State Fleet.
Described as Estonia’s first fully electric passenger ferry, the vessel will be equipped with two Steerprop SP 25 CRP units featuring permanent magnet motor drives. The project will also mark the first application of Steerprop’s next-generation CRP technology, designed to further improve mechanical efficiency while maintaining the high thrust performance required for operations in both ice and open water.
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 perormance 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 CO₂ quota trading mechanisms.
