The company has invested over €13m to equip its four hybrid ships with 16 new Azipull 120 FPs to lower the fleet's underwater noise pollution and reduce carbon footprint.

The double-ended Prinsesse Benedikte was the last to receive the new gear - one 25t-heavy, 3.2 m in diameter at each corner of the ferry. The entire machinery can rotate around its vertical axis, functioning as a rudder.

"The new thrusters ensure a more homogeneous flow through the water, resulting in less noise and vibration. Less underwater noise and less vibration provide better conditions for marine life in the Fehmarnbelt, including harbour porpoises. In addition, the more homogeneous water flow ultimately reduces emissions, including CO2," Scandlines said in a press release.

Michael Guldmann Petersen, the ferry line's COO, added, "With the completed project, we have reduced CO2 emissions from the hybrid ferries by up to 15% and thus taken an important step towards zero-emission ferries on the Puttgarden-Rødby route. We are very pleased that this can be combined with less impact on the marine environment in the Fehmarnbelt."

Kongsberg Maritime delivered the equipment as well as a new bridge thruster control system for every vessel.

Additionally, Scandlines' simulator in Puttgarden was upgraded to prepare the crew for the new propulsion system.

Photo: Scandlines