Wärtsilä will deliver an integrated propulsion solution for a new short-sea cargo vessel ordered by Finnish operator Meriaura, as part of the company’s fleet renewal program.
The 6,800DWT ice-class open-deck carrier is being designed to improve energy efficiency, operational flexibility and emissions performance. Wärtsilä booked the order in the first quarter of 2026.
The vessel will be equipped with a modular propulsion package centered on two Wärtsilä 25 main engines, designed to support fuel flexibility and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The scope also includes a Wärtsilä 20 auxiliary engine and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to further control emissions.
In addition, Wärtsilä will supply a full electric propulsion system aimed at improving propulsion efficiency and lowering fuel consumption. Three transverse thrusters will also be installed to support dynamic positioning and station-keeping during offshore and heavy-lift operations.
Jessica Saari, business development director at Meriaura, said, “This advanced vessel marks a significant milestone in our fleet renewal program, further enhancing our capabilities in heavy project and special-cargo transport.
“With increased capacity, future-fuel-ready Wärtsilä engines and improved operational flexibility, we are well positioned to serve our customers more efficiently and sustainably across a broader range of routes and operating conditions.”
The vessel is being developed to address increasing regulatory and market pressure on shipowners to reduce emissions while maintaining operational performance.
Mika Ojutkangas, general manager, sales, Finland and Baltics, Wärtsilä Marine, said, “This advanced new-build project demonstrates the shipping industry’s drive to decarbonization through adopting flexible, efficient and sustainable solutions with built-in readiness for sustainable fuels.
“By combining engines, electric propulsion and advanced manoeuvring technologies, we will enable Meriaura to achieve both operational flexibility and emissions savings for this new vessel.”
Wärtsilä is scheduled to deliver the equipment in mid-2027, with the vessel expected to enter service in early 2028.
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