Italy’s Grimaldi will mobilise two of its GG5G-class ro-ro ships on its Venice, Bari and Patras service linking Italy with Greece.
The GG5G vessels are among the largest and most eco-friendly in the world, with much higher capacity and better performances than the Eurocargo-class ships that they will replace on the line, said Grimaldi. Each ship can carry some 7,800 linear metres of freight, equivalent to around 500 trailers and 180 cars. This greater capacity does not increase fuel consumption thanks to the adoption of various technological solutions to optimise operational and environmental performance.
In addition, emissions are cut to zero during port operations. When berthed, Eco Catania and Eco Malta use electricity stored in lithium batteries that are recharged during navigation thanks to shaft generators and 350 sq m of solar panels installed on board.
Ugo Patroni Griffi, president of the Port System Authority of the Southern Adriatic Sea, said: “Having ships producing zero emission in port represents a key investment for the sustainable future of our seaports. In fact, in addition to guaranteeing zero emission impact on the territory, the introduction of two brand-new Grimaldi Eco vessels – replacing the four Eurocargo ships which have been operating the line up to now – will exponentially increase the transport capacity of rolling freight from the port of Bari.”
President of the Port System Authority of the Northern Adriatic Sea, Fulvio Lino Di Blasio, said that the ro-ro sector grew by over 11 percent in 2022 – a trend that has continued in the first half of 2023 – and is central to the development of the port system in the Veneto region. “Once again, we have evidence that port development and the protection of the lagoon ecosystem can find a balance, thanks to the activities of the institutions and the intelligent investments of port operators,” he added.
The vessels will enter rotation on June 26.
