Norwegian ferry operator Torghatten Nord has taken delivery of its new battery-electric vessel, Misterøy, marking the first of three electric ferries being built for the company by Turkey’s Özata Shipyard.
Measuring approximately 77 metres, the Ro-Pax ferry can accommodate up to 60 cars and 195 passengers. It will operate on the Festvåg–Misten route in Nordland, north of Bodø, connecting the mainland with the Kjerringøy peninsula.
Designed by Norwegian Ship Design Company, Misterøy is the first vessel in a series that will also include two sister ships, Fløytind and Møysalen.
1,960 kWh Battery Supports Electric Propulsion
Misterøy features two independent propulsion and energy systems positioned at the bow and stern, each equipped with an electric SRE propulsion system supplied by German manufacturer Schottel.
The vessel uses a 1,960 kWh battery system supplied by Akasol, which Torghatten Nord said can be expanded if required. Two Volvo Penta D16 diesel generators provide additional power and operational flexibility.
This configuration allows the ferry to operate in fully battery-electric, hybrid or diesel-electric modes, depending on operating requirements.
Norwegian company SEAM is responsible for integrating the energy and propulsion systems for Misterøy and its sister ship Fløytind. Its supply includes battery systems, energy management and automation controls, switchgear, transformers, and bridge and navigation technology.
Estonia to Install 5 MW Charging System for Electric Ferry Route
For fully electric operation, the route will use charging infrastructure at Festvåg featuring automated charging towers supplied by Zinus.
Three Electric Ferries for Norwegian Operations
The delivery forms part of Torghatten Nord’s fleet modernisation programme. The company secured a 10-year operating contract for the Festvåg–Misten route in May 2024, with the agreement taking effect on January 1, 2025.
All three ferries are being constructed at Özata’s Turkish shipyard. The third vessel, Møysalen, is currently scheduled for delivery in August 2028.
The project also follows delays affecting Torghatten Nord’s separate hydrogen ferry programme. The operator ordered two hydrogen-powered vessels in 2023, initially targeting entry into service in 2025. However, operations are now unlikely to begin before 2027.
The first hydrogen ferry is expected to initially operate on biofuel until the dedicated hydrogen production facility becomes available.