World's Largest Electric Catamaran China Zorrilla Arrives in Uruguay

The world's largest electric-powered catamaran, China Zorrilla, has arrived in Uruguay aboard a semi-submersible heavy transport vessel, with Latin America's largest tugboat owner coordinating its float-off and transport. The 130-metre aluminium-hulled ferry is a fully electric, emissions-free vessel built by Incat in Tasmania. SAAM Towage's tugboats supported the vessel during unloading in Nueva Palmira and its subsequent 60-nautical-mile voyage to the port of Colonia, in an operation requiring meticulous planning.

 

Details of the Arrival

 

A landmark vessel has arrived in Uruguay. It is the catamaran China Zorrilla. It is the world's largest electric catamaran. It arrived aboard a transport vessel. This was a semi-submersible heavy transport ship.

The vessel is notable in several ways. It measures 130 metres in length. It has an aluminium hull. It is fully electric and emissions-free. It was built by Incat in Tasmania, Australia.

 

The Transport Operation

 

The vessel made a long journey. It was transported from Australia. It travelled aboard a Boskalis ship. This was the vessel Black Marlin. It arrived at Nueva Palmira in Uruguay.

The arrival required tug support. SAAM Towage's tugboats assisted. This covered the unloading process. It also covered the vessel's mobilisation. The tugs supported the operation throughout.

 

The Float-Off Manoeuvre

 

The float-off was a complex operation. It began off the coast of Nueva Palmira. Mooring lines holding the vessel were released. The transport ship then performed a ballast manoeuvre. It deliberately submerged its deck.

This enabled the vessel to float. It used its own buoyancy. Two tugboats directly assisted. They helped stabilise the vessel. They guided it safely from the transport ship.

 

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The Voyage to Colonia

 

The vessel then made a further voyage. This was to the port of Colonia. It covered around 60 nautical miles. Two other tugs carried this out. The voyage was non-stop over 10 hours.

The transport required careful handling. It went via the Martín García Channel. One tug was positioned at the bow. Another was at the stern. This managed the vessel to its berth.

 

The Vessel's Purpose

 

The vessel will serve a specific route. It will operate between Argentina and Uruguay. The operator is Buquebus. It is a passenger and vehicle ferry. It has substantial capacity.

The vessel offers significant capacity. It carries 2,100 passengers. It also carries 225 vehicles. It is fitted with large battery packs. These total 41.2 MWh of capacity.

 

Significance of the Operation

 

The operation required careful coordination. Company leadership cited meticulous planning. It involved seamless team coordination. This supported a sustainable maritime industry. It reflected complex logistical work.

The vessel marks a milestone for electric shipping. It is the largest of its kind. It offers emissions-free ferry service. This supports maritime decarbonisation. Its arrival brings it closer to service.