Buquebus begins transport of world's largest electric ferry

Buquebus has begun a 15,000-kilometer journey to transport the China Zorrilla, the world’s largest 100% electric ferry, from Hobart, Tasmania, to the Rio de la Plata. The vessel, built by the Australian shipyard INCAT, is being carried on a heavy transport semi-submersible ship.

The ferry will be unloaded at the Port of Nueva Palmira, Uruguay, before beginning operations on the route between Buenos Aires and Colonia del Sacramento. The China Zorrilla measures 130 meters in length and 32 meters in width, with a capacity for 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles. Designed for zero direct greenhouse gas emissions, it utilizes a Wärtsilä energy storage system exceeding 40 MWh to power advanced electric waterjets.

The transit route involves crossing the South Pacific, passing through the Strait of Magellan, and traveling along the Argentine Sea before entering the Rio de la Plata. This acquisition is viewed as a significant milestone for sustainable mobility and regional maritime connectivity in the Southern Cone.