Tasmania is setting sail into a greener maritime future with a new eco-friendly passenger ferry bound for Maria Island. The project, backed by a $650,000 government grant, is a testament to how public-private partnerships can drive innovation and sustainability in the maritime industry.
The ferry, operated by Encounter Maria Island—a part of the Navigators Group—will run on green methanol, a clean fuel that significantly reduces emissions compared to traditional diesel. This initiative aligns seamlessly with Tasmania’s Future Clean Fuels Strategy, positioning the state as a frontrunner in clean maritime technology.
Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, highlighted the strategic importance of this project: “This project pioneers green methanol fuel use and advances Tasmania’s reputation for clean fuel maritime technology. Tasmania is charting a clean fuels future. This ferry has far lower emissions than diesel, which is why we’re supporting innovators like Encounter Maria Island to lead the way.”
The decision to use green methanol comes after extensive research by Navigators, which considered various alternative fuels and propulsion systems. According to Navigators CEO, John Roche, battery electric or hydrogen fuel cell systems were not viable due to operational, technological, regulatory, and cost challenges. “We have spent years researching and examining options for future fuels for a ferry of this type and size, and battery electric, or hydrogen fuel cell electric propulsion systems didn’t stack up for a variety of operational, technological, regulatory and cost reasons,” Mr Roche said.
The ferry will initially operate using the best available low-emission technology while green methanol engines and fuel become more widely available. This forward-thinking approach ensures the vessel is future-proofed for transitions to even cleaner fuels as they become accessible. “A vessel has a life of over 30 years, and we know that in this period diesel will not be the fuel of choice,” Roche added.
The green methanol for the ferry is planned to be sourced from the Bell Bay Powerfuels Project or the HIF Global E-fuels plant in Burnie, further embedding the project within Tasmania’s growing green fuel ecosystem.
This initiative not only sets a new standard for eco-friendly maritime transport in Australia but also underscores Tasmania’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. By supporting projects like this, the Tasmanian Government is fostering an environment where businesses can thrive while contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
The ferry is expected to be operational by late 2026, just in time to meet the increased visitation demand for the Maria Island summer period. This project is a clear example of how collaboration between government and industry can drive meaningful change and set new benchmarks for environmental stewardship in the maritime sector.