Norwegian tourism and technology company Brim Explorer has signed contracts for the construction of two battery-powered passenger vessels. The two high-speed trimarans are scheduled for delivery in spring 2027.
Herde Kompositt will build the hulls using advanced composite technology. Final outfitting, including system integration and interior work, will be undertaken by Horten Shipyards.
The zero-emission vessels – the most efficient in the world, according to Brim Explorer – have capacity for 180 passengers and will be used for silent sightseeing and experience cruises in some of Norway’s most popular natural beauty spots.
Developed following the principle of ‘electric by design’ by Brim Tech – Brim Explorer’s in-house technology division – the vessels are engineered from the ground up for electric propulsion, rather than being converted from fossil fuel propulsion.
Agnes Árnadóttir, CEO and co-founder of Brim Explorer, said, “This is a milestone for both Brim Explorer and the Norwegian maritime industry. We are not only proving that it is possible to combine zero emissions, high speed and long range – we are developing and building the vessels in Norway, with Norwegian suppliers.”
The two new trimarans reportedly have a range of 100 nautical miles at 20kts without recharging.
Brim Explorer’s CTO and co-founder, Espen Larsen-Hakkebo, commented, “We have been using our existing vessels as test platforms for several years, which has given us unique insights. We know what actually works in real-world conditions, not just in simulations. That’s the difference between developing something that looks good on paper and something that delivers in practice every single day.”
The total investment in the two vessels is in the order of NOK 200m (US$21m), the largest in Brim Explorer’s history. The company expects the project to generate significant ripple effects for Norwegian shipyards and suppliers.
Brim Explorer’s existing vessels and the new trimarans are designed by Einar Hareide; the trimaran hulls are designed by Wind Naval Architects. In addition to sightseeing from the outdoor decks and panoramic windows, the new vessels are built to offer dinner cruises and other evening experiences.
The two new trimarans are scheduled to sail their maiden voyages in spring 2027.
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