Liberty Lines’ new HSC Hybrids: a new way of sailing

In 2022, Liberty Lines embarked on an ambitious journey: to build the world’s first fleet of dedicated hybrid passenger speedboats. A pioneering project that has resulted in nine new HSC Hybrid vessels designed to combine high performance, reduced emissions, and superior travel comfort.

Today, the fleet comprises all nine next-generation hybrid vessels, already operating on the maritime routes between Sicily and its smaller islands, marking a turning point for maritime mobility.

These are ships that have won numerous international awards, ensure high performance even in adverse weather conditions, provide a higher level of comfort for passengers, and contribute significantly to the reduction of environmental impact in operating territories, thanks to the ability to sail in electric mode near ports of call.

Technical Characteristics

The new boats, 39.5 meters long and capable of accommodating up to 251 passengers, are constructed of aluminum alloy:

• They reach 30 knots of speed with endothermic engines.

• They can travel in all-electric mode (zero smoke and noise) near the coast at a speed of 10 knots for 30 minutes.

• They are set up for cold ironing, the technology that allows services to be powered and batteries to be recharged via electrified port docks.

The three modes of the Hybrid Power Unit

The most significant innovation is the modular hybrid system:

1. ELECTRICAL MODE: Electric motors provide propulsion and power all the ship’s services. Endothermic engines remain off for zero-emission cruising.

2. ECONOMIC MODE: Diesel engines power the propulsion and charge the batteries via electric motors (which act as generators), optimizing the use of on-board power units.

3. POWER MODE: Diesel engines provide propulsion while power units provide the energy needed for the ship’s services.

Sustainability and Results

Environmental impact is drastically reduced. With the SCR system, compared with similar units, a reduction of:

• 30% CO2

• 81% visible smoke

• 62% particulate matter

• 83% of polluting gases

Specifically, each ship provides an annual reduction of 20,000 kilograms of nitrogen oxides (NOx), a value equivalent to the emissions produced in a year by more than 30 buses or a regional diesel train.

Comfort and the Future

The excellent hydrodynamic characteristics of the hulls ensure efficient and smooth sailing even in rough sea conditions. The entry into service of the HSC Hybrids represents a concrete step toward more responsible maritime transport, positioning Liberty Lines as an international benchmark in maritime mobility innovation.