Wärtsilä Marine has been selected to deliver an integrated propulsion package for a new open-deck carrier ordered by Finnish operator Meriaura, supporting the company’s fleet renewal plan.

The new vessel is being developed with a focus on lower energy use, reduced emissions and broader operating capability. The 6,800 DWT ice-class short-sea ship is intended to strengthen Meriaura’s capacity in heavy project cargo and special transport.

Meriaura said the vessel will expand its transport capability with higher capacity, greater flexibility and engines prepared for future fuels. The company said this will help it serve customers more efficiently and sustainably across a wider range of routes and operating conditions.

The propulsion scope includes two Wärtsilä 25 main engines, one Wärtsilä 20 engine and a Wärtsilä Selective Catalytic Reduction system. The package is aimed at lowering greenhouse gas emissions while improving the vessel’s overall environmental performance.

In addition, Wärtsilä will provide a complete electric propulsion system to improve propulsion efficiency and support lower fuel consumption. The delivery also covers three transverse thrusters, which will strengthen the vessel’s dynamic positioning performance during offshore construction and heavy lifting work.

The order comes as shipowners and operators face changing market conditions and tighter decarbonization requirements. Demand is rising for vessel technologies that can combine operational flexibility with measurable emissions reductions.

Equipment delivery is scheduled for mid-2027, with the vessel expected to enter service in early 2028.