SIKANIA II
The SIKANIA II HYBRID Case Study
Hybrid marine propulsion integration for SIKANIA II HYBRID
As the maritime industry accelerates toward more sustainable operations, hybrid propulsion technology is becoming a defining factor in the future of passenger transportation. The SIKANIA II HYBRID project reflects this transition through an advanced propulsion architecture designed to combine operational efficiency, fuel optimization, and reduced environmental impact for Italian coastal operations.
Developed with the engineering support and system integration expertise of XANTHIS S.A., the 105-meter passenger Ro-Ro vessel, with an 18-meter beam is powered by four Baudouin 12M26.3 propulsion engines delivering 1002 kW (1370 HP) each at 1800 RPM under P2 Heavy Duty rating conditions. The propulsion package is fully compliant with IMO III emissions standards through an integrated SCR system.
Intelligent hybrid marine propulsion
What distinguishes the project is its advanced hybrid propulsion configuration developed through extensive engineering coordination and automation integration by XANTHIS S.A.
The system incorporates 230 kW per electric motor, operating in synergy with the diesel engines to optimize efficiency and environmental performance under different operational conditions.
The propulsion arrangement is connected to an Azimuth Thruster from Veth by Twin Disc, further enhancing maneuverability, propulsion control, and operational efficiency during harbor approach, docking, and low-speed navigation. This configuration supports precise vessel handling while working in combination with the hybrid propulsion system, allowing smooth transitions between diesel and electric operating modes.
During harbor approach and low-speed maneuvering below 6 knots, the diesel engines automatically shut down and propulsion transitions to electric mode. This enables low-noise and low-emission maneuvering during docking and cargo operations, significantly improving sustainability in port areas.
Once the vessel exceeds operational speed thresholds upon departure, the diesel engines automatically restart and resume propulsion, while the electric motor transitions into generator mode to recharge the battery system.
Engineering an impeccable transition between power modes
The development of the hybrid propulsion solution required extensive engineering coordination between propulsion systems, electrical integration, automation, and classification compliance.
From initial design to final commissioning, the project spanned more than a year and included installation, programming, validation, and comprehensive sea trials to ensure seamless interaction between diesel and electric propulsion modes.
One of the project’s most technically demanding aspects involved the synchronization of engine start-stop sequences and propulsion mode transitions. Since marine diesel engines require a controlled ramp-up period before reaching nominal operating speed and full propulsion torque, the automation system had to integrate precise timing algorithms capable of anticipating operational thresholds without affecting maneuverability, safety, or passenger comfort.
Heavy-duty reliability meets sustainable operations
The Baudouin 12M26.3 platform was selected for its high-power density and robust heavy-duty marine performance, making it ideally suited for passenger Ro-Ro operations where operational continuity and reliability are critical.
Operating under P2 Heavy Duty rating conditions, each engine delivers consistent torque output at 1800 RPM, supporting both cruising efficiency and demanding load conditions. At the same time, the integrated SCR system significantly reduces NOx emissions while maintaining optimal combustion efficiency.
Through the SIKANIA II HYBRID project, XANTHIS S.A. together with Shipyard partner C.T.E. Perdikaris Engineering, successfully delivered an advanced hybrid-ready propulsion solution combining intelligent energy management, sophisticated marine automation, engineering expertise, and reliable heavy-duty marine performance for the next generation of sustainable maritime transportation.
