INCAT TASMANIA has declared its  newest 78-metre hybrid electric ferry is on track for operation in the first half of 2026 – perfectly timed for operators looking to enter service ahead of the Northern Hemisphere summer season, the company says.

Designed with low-emission operations in mind, the lightweight craft represents the next evolution in Incat’s electric ferry range, incorporating lessons learned from the world’s largest battery-electric ship, Hull 096 (China Zorilla), also nearing completion at the Tasmanian shipyard and destined for South America operator Buquebus, a regular customer.

Sized to replace the first generation of revolutionary 74-78 metre wave-piercers now approaching 35 years in service, the vessel is a future-focused solution for operators needing sustainable, fast, and efficient transport, Incat says. With flexible propulsion options – fully electric, hybrid, or generator-assisted – the vessel offers unmatched versatility for operators navigating the transition to cleaner energy.*

“Incat has engineered this ferry to meet the demands of modern operators – high performance, lower operating costs, and the ability to meet or exceed tightening environmental regulations,” Incat CEO Stephen Casey said. “It’s one of the most commercially compelling vessels on the market today.”

The 78-metre ferry is part of Incat’s broader strategy to deliver multiple smaller electric ships annually, as the company scales production to lead the global shift toward sustainable aluminium shipbuilding. A sister ship is in the pipeline and could be available within 12 months after the delivery of this vessel.

Incat’s progress report comes just as it was named as one of Australia’s best-managed companies in 2024 by Deloitte

“Now in its fifth cycle, this business awards program shines a spotlight on successful private businesses from across Australia and the exceptional performance that drives them to be the best,” Deloitte said.

The Best Managed Companies program celebrates outstanding private businesses, by ranking them against global benchmarks for success.  Each year, applicants undergo a thorough application process, but only the best are awarded with this prestigious designation.

Backed by a 30-year history and a proven framework, Best Managed Companies has recognised and connected around 1,300 of the best private companies in 45+ countries across the globe to date, Deloitte says.

Incat also picked up the award for 2023.

* Key specifications:

  • Near-zero emissions capability with ESS sizing up to 12MWh
  • Charging capacity up to 10MW
  • Top speed of 27 knots
  • 600 passengers
  • 4.6 metre vehicle deck clearance, ideal for freight and truck transport
  • Flexible vehicle deck configurations with optional mezzanine decks 
  • 2 x 230kW bow thrusters for enhanced manoeuvrability
  • Bridgewing control stations, port and starboard for berthing operations