Remontowa Shipbuilding Sends New Electric Ferry to Norway

A modern passenger–car ferry named Bjarkøy, built in Poland, has begun its journey to Norway where it will soon enter regular service. The vessel was constructed at the Remontowa Shipbuilding shipyard in Gdańsk for the Norwegian ferry operator Torghatten Nord, continuing the long-standing cooperation between the Polish shipyard and Scandinavian maritime companies.

The ferry is designed to operate in northern Norway on the short route between Stornes and Bjørnerå. Once deployed, it will connect the two ports in approximately 12 minutes, ensuring quick and efficient transport for both residents and visitors in the region.

Modern vessel built in Poland

The Bjarkøy ferry was built under a contract signed in December 2023. Construction began in May 2024 at the Remontowa Shipbuilding yard in Gdańsk. The project was developed by The Norwegian Ship Design Company, with additional working documentation prepared by Remontowa Marine Design & Consulting, part of the Remontowa Holding group.

The vessel measures about 63.65 meters in length and 15.5 meters in width. It can carry up to 149 people, including passengers and crew, as well as 50 passenger cars, making it well suited for regional ferry services in the Norwegian fjords.

Hybrid propulsion and environmentally friendly operation

One of the key features of the new ferry is its hybrid propulsion system. The vessel is equipped with two azimuth thrusters powered by vertically mounted electric motors. During normal operations, the ferry will run primarily on battery power, which will be recharged from shore infrastructure while the vessel is docked.

If necessary, onboard generators can provide additional power, ensuring safe and reliable operation even in demanding weather conditions typical for northern Norway. This type of propulsion system significantly reduces emissions and supports Norway’s efforts to develop greener maritime transport.

Tests and departure for Norway

Before departure, the ferry underwent sea trials — an essential stage in shipbuilding that verifies the performance of all onboard systems, including propulsion, maneuverability, and safety equipment. These tests confirm whether the vessel meets the contractual and technical requirements before being handed over to the shipowner.

Initially, the trials were delayed due to thick ice — reaching up to 50 centimeters — on the Martwa Wisła river in Gdańsk, which blocked the waterway leading from the shipyard to the sea. Once the ice conditions improved, the vessel was finally able to leave the yard and complete its tests.

Strengthening cooperation with Norway

The delivery of Bjarkøy highlights the strong relationship between Polish shipbuilders and the Norwegian ferry sector. Over the years, Remontowa Shipbuilding has delivered several vessels to Norwegian operators, demonstrating the shipyard’s expertise in building modern ferries designed for demanding Scandinavian conditions.

After arriving in Norway, the ferry will soon start operating in regular service, improving connectivity in the Troms region and providing a fast, environmentally friendly transport link between local communities.