Viking Line Eyes Emission-Free Helsinki-Tallinn Route with "World's Largest" Electric Ferry

Viking Line, the Finland-based shipping company, is making headlines with its ambitious plan to launch an emission-free route connecting Helsinki, Finland, and Tallinn, Estonia. This groundbreaking service will be operated by what is anticipated to be the world's largest all-electric passenger car ferry, a significant step towards greener maritime travel.

Viking Line has already submitted a funding application to the EU's Innovation Fund to support the construction of this pioneering vessel, named Helios. If approved, the ferry could commence operations in the Gulf of Finland as early as the 2030s.

The conceptual design for Helios emerged from a collaborative research effort involving Viking Line's internal team, shipbuilding expert Rauma Marine Constructions, and various other partners. This collective expertise aims to bring a new era of sustainable shipping to life.

Powering the Future: Battery Technology and Charging Infrastructure

The Helios is envisioned to boast an impressive battery capacity of approximately 85-100 megawatt-hours (MWh). This substantial energy storage will enable the ferry to transport up to 2,000 passengers across the Gulf in just over two hours. The vessel's dimensions are projected to be 195 meters in length and 30 meters in width, with a planned speed of about 23 knots.

Powering a vessel of this magnitude necessitates a robust electrical infrastructure. Viking Line estimates the ferry will require a charging capacity exceeding 30 MWh. This highlights the critical role of power cables in modern maritime operations. Just as the ferry's battery is the heart of its propulsion, high-voltage power cables are the arteries, transmitting massive amounts of electrical energy efficiently and safely. These specialized cables are designed to withstand harsh marine environments, including saltwater corrosion, extreme temperatures, and mechanical stress, all while minimizing energy loss over long distances. Their construction often involves multiple layers of insulation, shielding, and robust outer jacketing to ensure reliability and prevent electromagnetic interference, which is crucial for sensitive onboard electronic systems.

Jan Hanses, CEO of Viking Line, emphasized the profound impact of this development, calling it a "great opportunity" for both Helsinki and Tallinn ports. He foresees the establishment of a green maritime corridor between Estonia and Finland. "Electric shipping is not created solely by ship investments," Hanses stated. "It also requires efficient, reliable charging infrastructure in ports. The home port for the new electric vessels would be Jätkäsaari, where the Port of Helsinki has a development and expansion program underway until 2032. The progress of this project is extremely important for our own plans." He further revealed plans to commission at least two vessels to service the planned route.

Collaborative Efforts for a Sustainable Future

The drive for emission-free shipping in the Gulf of Finland is significantly bolstered by the FIN-EST Green Corridor project. This initiative, launched by the cities of Helsinki and Tallinn in October 2023, includes key founders and members such as the ports of Helsinki and Tallinn, Estonia's Ministry of Climate, Viking Line, Rederi AB Eckerö, and Tallink Grupp.

In October 2024, the FIN-EST Green Corridor gave the green light to 19 joint projects. These initiatives cover a wide array of efforts aimed at supporting climate neutrality, signaling the next phase in achieving this environmental vision.

Data from the Port of Helsinki indicates that most passenger and freight traffic originates from the port and is destined for Estonia. Port predictions suggest that passenger traffic between Helsinki's West Harbour and Tallinn could surge from 5.5 million in 2024 to an estimated 11.6 million by 2040. Cargo volumes are also expected to experience substantial growth.

"The Helsinki–Tallinn route performed particularly well last year, and we believe volume will continue to increase – there is strong demand, based on need, for connections between Finland and the Baltic," Hanses remarked. He also highlighted the growing pressure on fossil fuel-based maritime traffic due to EU emissions trading fees and tightening regulations, underscoring how "emission-free technology would enable us to increase capacity on the route."

Viking Line's Journey Towards Low-Emission Shipping

Viking Line has consistently demonstrated its commitment to low-emission shipping and achieving Net Zero in recent years, investing hundreds of millions of euros in new technologies.

For instance, the company's 2013-built passenger vessel, Viking Grace, was celebrated as the world's first of its kind to utilize both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and biogas as fuel. In 2021, successful trial testing of rotor sail technology, developed by Finland's Norsepower, was completed onboard Viking Grace. This showcased the significant potential of wind propulsion when combined with dual-fuel capabilities. Further solidifying its green fleet, Viking Line added the Finnish-flagged LNG-powered Viking Glory to its roster in 2022.

Beyond LNG, the company has also embraced the use of biofuel. In January 2025, Viking Line unveiled a sustainable initiative utilizing biofuel to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from conference trips on three of its vessels operating on Helsinki routes.

Innovating Connections: Feichun Cable's Role in Sustainable Infrastructure

As the world transitions to cleaner energy solutions, reliable and advanced cable technology becomes paramount. Feichun Cable is a leading provider of high-quality power cables, control cables, and specialized marine cables designed for demanding applications. Our products meet rigorous international standards, offering exceptional durability, efficiency, and safety. From enabling efficient port charging infrastructure to supporting the internal electrical systems of advanced vessels, Feichun Cable provides the robust connectivity essential for the future of sustainable maritime transport and beyond. Explore our comprehensive range of cabling solutions that empower innovation and drive progress towards a greener tomorrow.

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