Plans outlined for ‘gamechanger’ battery-electric cruise ship

Plans have been disclosed for the world’s first 100% battery‑electric cruise ship capable of carrying almost 1,900 passengers.

 

The 80,000 gross ton Project Vision would cut greenhouse gas emissions by 95%, German ship builder Meyer Werft claimed.

 

The 275-metre long battery-electric vessel would be able to sail a large proportion of European cruise itineraries, such as Barcelona to Civitavecchia, the port for Rome.

 

New architectural approaches to cruise ship design would mean no funnel, while the vertical shaft running through the ship for exhaust treatment can be completely eliminated. 

 

“This enables an entirely new sun deck design with unobstructed views,” the ship building firm said. 

 

“The ‘Vision’ concept study is designed as an all‑weather ship and includes fully glazed, weather‑protected areas. For example, the typical aqua park has been arranged as an indoor area at the stern, making it usable year‑round. 

 

“Another major advantage of the fully battery‑electric power system and the elimination of main engines - the onboard comfort improves significantly, with even fewer engine noises and vibrations.”

 

The concept was unveiled at the Seatrade Cruise Global conference in Miami.

 

The company said: “With the battery system, a large portion of typical European cruise routes can be covered, for example the route from Barcelona to Civitavecchia near Rome. 

 

“By 2030, around one hundred ports across Europe will offer the required charging infrastructure. 

 

“Upon request, the ships can also be built as hybrids with small generators, enabling, for example, transatlantic crossings.

 

“The concept study demonstrates how sustainable innovations can redefine the future of cruise industry.”

 

The battery system would be supplied by Norwegian company Corvus Energy, which has equipped more than half of the world’s hybrid and fully electric seagoing vessels.

 

Chief executive Fredrik Witte said: “Our close collaboration with Meyer Werft and the combination of our capabilities demonstrated with the ‘Vision’ is the natural evolution of battery technology - and a defining moment for the cruise industry. 

 

“Scaling to fully electric cruise ships shows the world that the technology is safe, mature and ready to change the game.”

 

Tim Krug, from the Meyer Weft concept development group, said: “We asked ourselves how we can use innovation to reduce CO₂ and contribute to decarbonisation - not in 50 years, but much sooner. We enable a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of up to 95%.”

 

Johannes Bade, responsible for the development program behind ‘Vision’, added: “With battery‑electric cruise ships, we offer a competitive product that relies on existing technologies. 

 

“We are opening up entirely new opportunities for our customers to operate sustainably and profitably in the long term.”