The Future of Ferries: How Molslinjen’s Nerthus Is Rewriting the Rules

A Battery-Powered Leap Toward Autonomous Shipping

On May 17, Molslinjen welcomed its newest eco-warrior: the Nerthus, a battery-powered RoRo passenger ferry built by Turkey’s Cemre Shipyard. This 11.6-meter, double-ended vessel isn’t just another addition to the fleet—it’s a glimpse into the future of maritime transport. Designed by OSK-ShipTech, the Nerthus is the first of two ordered in 2022, optimized for the Ballen-Kalundborg route with a focus on cutting emissions and boosting efficiency.

“The Nerthus isn’t just a ferry—it’s a statement. Zero emissions, autonomous functions, and a backup system that’s ready for the energy transition,” says a Molslinjen spokesperson.

What sets the Nerthus apart? Its four steerable thrusters, powered by electrical permanent magnet motors, ensure nimble maneuvering, while four 493 ekW backup generators running on hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) provide a safety net. But the real star is the battery system, enabling zero-emission crossings during normal operations. And when the ferry isn’t running on pure battery power, the HVO generators slash CO₂ emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional diesel.

Autonomy Meets Practicality

The Nerthus isn’t just green—it’s smart. Equipped with auto-crossing and auto-docking capabilities, the ferry reduces human error and optimizes energy use. These features are part of Molslinjen’s broader push toward automation, a trend gaining steam in the maritime industry. “Autonomous functions aren’t about replacing crews; they’re about enhancing safety and precision,” explains an OSK-ShipTech engineer.

Molslinjen’s commitment to innovation isn’t new. In 2023, the company added the Express 5, an LNG-ready high-speed ferry built by Austal Philippines, to its fleet. But the Nerthus represents a sharper pivot—away from fossil fuels entirely. With stricter emissions regulations looming, the ferry’s battery-first design could become the blueprint for coastal shipping worldwide.

“The Nerthus proves that zero-emission ferries aren’t a fantasy. They’re here, they’re viable, and they’re the future,” says a maritime analyst.

As the Nerthus begins its service, all eyes are on its performance. Will it meet the demands of daily crossings? Can its battery system handle peak seasons? Molslinjen seems confident. And if the ferry delivers, it won’t just transform a single route—it could accelerate the entire industry’s shift toward sustainability.