The new Steam Packet ferry will have an environmentally efficient hybrid diesel-electric engine.

As we reported earlier this year, the company has signed a deal with South Korea’s Hyundai Mipo Dockyard for a roll-on/roll-off passenger vessel, which will be the firm’s first brand new vessel in 23 years.

Construction is set to start in the middle of next year and it is due to be delivered in spring 2023.

Steam Packet chief executive Mark Woodward said: ’We have been, and still are, investigating technologies that will provide a much more efficient vessel to serve the Isle of Man and working towards emission reduction targets.

’These technologies, including hybrid propulsion, energy storage and waste heat recovery, are becoming more widely used in the ferry sector, as they specifically suit the stop start operation of short sea voyages.’

London-based design and engineering consultancy firm Houlder has been contracted to act as technical advisors during the build process.

David Wing, Houlder ship design and engineering director, said it was important to meet ’environmental expectations for the vessel’s life-span which includes reducing local emissions while in port’.

The ship will replace Ben-my-Chree, which will then be retained as a back-up vessel.

Alongside the eco-friendly engine, the new ferry will offer more passenger space, enhanced on-board facilities and greater freight capability.

Steam Packet fleet operations manager Jim Royston said: ’Our relationship with Houlder dates back many years, with our last major project together being the conversion of Manannan from a military transport ship to a passenger catamaran.’

Design challenges included the need for the ship to tolerate the harsh conditions of the Irish Sea.