
Germany’s First Fully-Electric Catamaran Ferry: Damen Delivers E-KAT to Reederei Norden-Frisia
The Dutch shipbuilding company Damen Shipyards Group has successfully delivered Germany’s inaugural fully electric catamaran ferry, known as the E-Kat, to Reederei Norden-Frisia. The official handover occurred on January 15, 2025, followed by its transit from Rotterdam, Netherlands, to Norddeich-Norden in Lower Saxony on January 22.
During its journey, the E-Kat was towed from Rotterdam to Borkum Island in the North Sea, after which it operated under its own electric power to reach Norderney Island and its final destination at Norddeich. This 32-meter vessel will facilitate transport between Norddeich and Norderney, situated in the East Frisian Wadden Sea.
Constructed of lightweight aluminum, the E-Kat features twin hulls with a shallow draft of 1.2 meters, perfectly suited for its operational waters. It is designed to carry up to 150 passengers and can travel at speeds of up to 12 knots. The propulsion system includes two 600 kW electric motors and two 75 kW bow thrusters, while its battery system, crafted by Dutch company EST-Floattech, utilizes advanced Octopus High Energy battery technology, boasting a capacity of 1.8 MW.
The ferry is optimized for a 30-minute crossing with a turnaround of 28 minutes at each port. During this period, it recharges via shore power. Its fully charged battery supports a round trip of roughly 11 kilometers (7 miles), allowing it to operate without CO2 emissions.
Built at Damen’s shipyards in Poland and the Netherlands, the E-Kat has recently passed acceptance trials, ensuring its operational readiness. It is expected to manage up to eight round trips per day during peak times.
This vessel is part of a larger zero-emissions initiative by AG Reederei Norden-Frisia, which has installed solar energy systems at its Norddeich and Norderney facilities to facilitate renewable energy sourcing for charging the ferry. This step demonstrates a commitment to sustainable maritime transport, showcasing the potential of electric propulsion in reducing environmental impacts in passenger ferry operations.
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