Wärtsilä supplied the propulsion machinery for the Viking Grace, the world’s first LNG powered passenger vessel. Viking Grace, Ro-Pax ferry, 2013
A new era in ferry operations was established in 2013 with the launch of the world’s largest Ro-Pax ferry operating on LNG fuel. This vessel features four Wärtsilä 50DF dual-fuel engines and a complete Wärtsilä LNGPac system that includes the storage tanks, the fuel supply system, and all equipment needed for bunkering and related safety and automation systems. Wärtsilä also supplied the bow and stern thrusters, the fixed pitch main propellers and shaft lines with seal systems. The Viking Grace is also equipped with Wärtsilä’s NACOS Platinum Automation and Navigation system.
It is in our best interests to co-operate with Wärtsilä since they are experts in the development of new types of engines and the use of alternative fuels, thereby lowering specific fuel consumption and enhancing environmentally safe operations. Wärtsilä is a close, domestic supplier who offers us the opportunity to collaborate in improving our operations and engine maintenance capabilities, through technical training and field testing. All this is very important, especially now that Viking Line is entering a new era of gas-electric driven operation.
