The Italian company GNV, part of the MSC group, has added to its fleet the GNV Virgo, its first ferry powered by liquefied natural gas. liquefied natural gas. This vessel also marks a precedent in Italy as the first long-distance ferry powered by this technology, capable of reducing CO₂ emissions by 50% per unit transported, compared to ships of previous generations.
Official delivery in China and next route in Italy
The delivery of the GNV Virgo took place at the Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) in Guangzhou, China. The event brought together representatives of GSI, MSC Group and GNV, including Franco Domenico Fabrizio and Chiara Giovine, who was named the ship’s godmother.
The vessel will start its route to Italy to be officially christened on December 11 in the port of Palermo, from where it will operate key connections in the Mediterranean.
Virgo NGV Characteristics
The vessel features selective catalytic reduction systems, thermal recycling technology and cold ironing capability. These innovations reinforce GNV’s green approach, which plans to build eight new ferries by 2030 as part of its fleet renewal program.
Designed to offer a high level of comfort, the GNV Virgo has more than 420 cabins, spacious common areas, digital connectivity and services designed for families and pets. All this is combined with its capacity to carry up to 1,785 passengers and 2,770 linear meters of ro-ro cargo.
Source and photo: GNV
