Dutch solar innovator Wattlab and German inland shipping leader HGK Shipping have joined forces to unveil the world’s first hybrid solar-powered inland cargo vessel, marking a major step toward decarbonizing waterway transportation.

The vessel, named Blue Marlin, will primarily transport bulk goods for Salzgitter AG—one of Europe’s top steel producers—across the north-west German canal network. It was officially christened on July 3 during a ceremony in Hamburg, Germany.

Figure 1. Blue Marline.

Equipped with a diesel-electric “Future Fuel Ready” propulsion system, low-water optimization, and SEAFAR’s remote-control navigation technology, the Blue Marlin represents a cutting-edge approach to inland shipping. It also features 192 solar panels capable of generating up to 37,500 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually. Installed at the De Gerlien van Tiem shipyard in the Netherlands, the panels power both onboard systems and propulsion—making this the first inland ship to directly sail using solar energy.

Measuring 86 meters (282 feet) long and 9.5 meters (31 feet) wide, with a shallow draft of just 1.10 meters (3.61 feet), the Blue Marlin is designed specifically for low-water routes. It includes twin Veth rudder propellers and a bow thruster for improved maneuverability, and its modular design allows it to connect with push barges to carry loads up to 3,110 tons. Figure 1 shows Blue Marline.

Florian Bleikamp, managing director of HGK Dry Shipping, praised the partnership with Salzgitter AG, noting that their collaboration is turning innovative ideas into reality—from solar-powered emission-free tech and remote-controlled navigation to sustainable propulsion systems [1]. “The Blue Marlin stands as a strong symbol of what industry and logistics can accomplish together,” he said.

The vessel’s solar array works in tandem with four diesel generators and supports “peak shaving”—a method that reduces power demand during peak load times. Wattlab explained that its automated energy management system allocates power precisely where and when it’s needed, enhancing efficiency and cutting fuel usage.

Fabian Gerdes, head of customer logistics at Salzgitter Flachstahl, emphasized the ship’s importance to their sustainability goals: “The Blue Marlin plays a key role in enabling more climate-friendly transportation of our steel and raw materials. It significantly improves the carbon footprint of our logistics and aligns perfectly with our sustainability strategy.”

Reference:

1. https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/worlds-first-solar-powered-cargo-vessel

Cite this article:

Keerthana S (2025), World’s First Hybrid Solar Cargo Ship Set to Sail, Equipped With 192 Panels Generating 37,500 Kwh of Power Annually, AnaTechMaz, pp.341