A new era of sustainable inland shipping has dawned with the unveiling of the Blue Marlin, the world’s first inland vessel capable of using solar power for propulsion. This groundbreaking achievement is the result of a pioneering collaboration between Dutch solar innovator Wattlab and German inland shipping giant HGK Shipping.
The newly delivered Blue Marlin represents a significant leap forward in hybrid marine technology, demonstrating that solar energy can effectively power not only onboard systems but also high-voltage propulsion. This innovation sets a new benchmark for environmental responsibility in the maritime industry.
Equipped with 192 state-of-the-art solar panels, the Blue Marlin’s innovative system supplies power to both the vessel’s “hotel load” (onboard amenities) and its electric drive system. Under optimal conditions, these panels can generate up to 35 kW, directly contributing to the propulsion system. This makes the Blue Marlin the first inland cargo ship globally to achieve this advanced level of hybrid capability.
The solar setup seamlessly integrates with four diesel generators, enabling peak shaving. This intelligent feature prevents the need to activate additional generators during periods of high energy demand, resulting in significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions. An advanced, automated energy management platform on board the Blue Marlin intelligently distributes electrical power, maximizing efficiency and further enhancing fuel savings. The vessel even boasts the capability for limited all-solar sailing, particularly when lightly loaded and traveling downstream.
This marks another milestone in the successful partnership between Wattlab and HGK Shipping. In 2024, their collaborative efforts on the MS Helios, a 135-meter dry cargo vessel, earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records for featuring the largest solar array on an inland ship, with 312 panels. While the Helios’s solar system powered only low-voltage onboard systems, the Blue Marlin’s capabilities demonstrate a remarkable progression in the application of solar technology for maritime propulsion.
“The Blue Marlin is a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainability in inland shipping,” said a spokesperson for HGK Shipping. “This vessel is not just a technological marvel; it’s a clear signal of the industry’s potential to significantly reduce its environmental footprint.”
“We are incredibly proud to partner with HGK Shipping on this historic project,” added a representative from Wattlab. “The Blue Marlin showcases the immense potential of solar power to revolutionize maritime transport, offering a cleaner and more efficient future for our waterways.”
The Blue Marlin is set to begin operations, ushering in a new era of environmentally conscious and efficient inland shipping.
