GNV Acquires GNV Polaris To Boost Eco-Friendly Mediterranean Operations

GNV, the ferry operator within the MSC Group, has officially acquired GNV Polaris, the first of four new Ro-Pax vessels being built in China. This ship is scheduled to leave the Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) soon, making its way to Italy for final fittings before starting operations in January 2025. The new addition is expected to enhance GNV’s service network, providing greater flexibility, particularly for routes to Sicily and Sardinia, and improving the management of seasonal peak traffic.

Key Features of GNV Polaris

• Dimensions and Capacity:
  • Gross tonnage: ~46,000 tons
  • Length: 218 meters
  • Width: 29.6 meters
  • Speed: Up to 25 knots
  • Accommodation: 239 cabins, with a capacity for 1,500 passengers
  • Cargo space: 3,100 linear meters for rolling stock
• Sustainability and Environmental Technologies:
  GNV Polaris incorporates advanced green technologies to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency:
  • Cold Ironing: Allows the vessel to connect to shore power at port, cutting emissions and reducing noise pollution.
  • Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR): Ensure compliance with IMO Tier III environmental standards.
  • Energy-saving Features:
    • Heat Recycling: Turbo-alternators recycle energy from exhaust gases.
    • Inverter Technology: Optimizes the electrical load of pumps and fans.
    • LED Lighting: Energy-efficient lights throughout the ship.
    • Optimized Hull and Propeller Design: Reduces fuel consumption and enhances efficiency.
    • Eco-friendly Paint: Minimizes friction, further reducing fuel consumption.

Strategic Significance

According to Matteo Catani, GNV’s Naval Administrator Delegate, the Polaris marks a critical step in the company’s sustainability journey, reflecting GNV’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations. The ship’s advanced technologies will not only boost operational efficiency but also contribute to improving air quality and noise levels in ports.

With the addition of GNV Polaris, GNV aims to enhance its seasonal service flexibility and improve operational performance on key routes. The three other units under construction will further strengthen the fleet, all expected to join by 2026, reinforcing GNV’s position in the Mediterranean ferry market.