The world's largest electric ferry is about to embark on an extraordinary journey—not under its own power, but strapped to the deck of a heavy-lift ship.
Hobart, Tasmania – The heavy-lift vessel MV Black Marlin has been secured to transport the world’s largest battery-electric ferry, the China Zorrilla, from Hobart to South America. The 217-metre transport ship is expected to arrive in Hobart by mid-July following a prior stop in Melbourne.
The Vessel: China Zorrilla
Built by Incat in Hobart, the China Zorrilla is a 130-metre-long battery-electric catamaran.
Key Specifications:
- Capacity: 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles.
- Power: Over 5,000 batteries, weighing approximately 260 tonnes, offering a range of 90 minutes on a single charge.
- Construction: Lightweight aluminum, making the vessel unsuited for heavy seas.
- Completion: May 2024.
- Namesake: Named China Zorrilla.
Operational Route
Built for the South American operator Buquebus, the ferry is designed to run a 55-kilometre route across the Rio de la Plata, connecting Montevideo, Uruguay, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. The route will be traveled three times daily, with each crossing taking just over an hour.
Sea Trials
The China Zorrilla recently completed sea trials on the River Derwent, testing its propulsion, maneuverability, control systems, and overall operational performance. Speed trials were expected to reach upwards of 25 knots.
Transport to South America
Due to its lightweight aluminum construction and the need to cross open ocean, the ferry will not sail to South America under its own power. Instead, it will be carried by the heavy-lift vessel MV Black Marlin.
How It Will Be Loaded:
- The loading process in the River Derwent is expected to take several days.
- It involves submerging the cargo deck and positioning the ferry on a cradle.
- Temporary exclusion zones will be established on the River Derwent, with coordination from maritime authorities.
Timeline:
- The MV Black Marlin was last reported off the South African coast pending refueling, with a scheduled stop in Melbourne.
- Incat chairman Robert Clifford noted that heavy-lift transport ships like the Black Marlin are rare, making timing critical.
- The transport to Buenos Aires is estimated to take between 28 and 40 days.
Background on Delivery Delay
The initial delivery was delayed after the originally booked heavy-lift ship became stuck in the Persian Gulf due to the US-Iran conflict.
Industry Significance
The China Zorrilla is described as the largest battery-electric vehicle of its kind. Incat reports that its design has attracted interest from other operators. Danish company Molslinjen has already ordered a third battery-electric Incat ferry after commissioning two.