Four newly built road ferries for Canadian operator BC Ferries are to be fitted with two high-efficiency Twin Propellers from German propulsion manufacturer, SCHOTTEL.

These 81-metre vessels will be built to Damen’s Road Ferry 8117 E3 design and known as the Island Class vessels and will be capable of carrying up to 300 passengers and crew as well as 47 vehicles.

The main propulsion for each ferry consists of a pair of electric motors – each rated 950 kW at 1,700 rpm and driving the SCHOTTEL STP 340 azimuthing thrusters. Provided with a propeller diameter of 1.85 m, the STP enables a free-sailing speed of 14 knots.

SCHOTTEL Twin Propellers are suited to quiet vessels or applications with limited installation space, draught or propeller clearance. By sharing the load between two propellers, the risk of cavitation is minimised and tip clearance is increased. Both of these characteristics, in turn, lead to lower under water radiated noise and vibration levels. This concept also improves the efficiency of the propulsion system and reduces fuel consumption compared to single propellers.

“We’ve had positive experiences with SCHOTTEL azimuth thrusters in our Salish Class ferries, and opted for the German manufacturer for our Island Class as well. The propulsion system is efficient, quiet and sustainable, and a good fit for our Island Class ferries,” said Captain Jamie Marshall, vice president, business development and innovation at BC Ferries.