PETER-FRASER

Project description

  • NAME : Peter-Fraser
  • BOAT TYPE : Ferry
  • DELIVERY : 2013
  • SERVICES USED: Architecture | Construction

The Peter-Fraser is a ro-ro (roll-on/roll-off) ferry with a reinforced hull that can withstand being beached at low tide. It is the first hybrid-powered vessel of its kind in North America. Designed specifically for the crossing between L’Isle-Verte and Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs, in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, this ferry can carry up to 70 passengers and 12 cars.

Innovating with hybrid propulsion

The Peter-Fraser is one of our greatest innovations at Forillon Shipyard. This project for the Société des traversiers du Québec (STQ), which we were awarded after a call for tenders, had a very clear goal: it needed to be green.

Designing a hybrid ferry involved a number of technical challenges, such as making it lightweight so that it could run aground at low tide, despite the weight of the batteries and coolers needed for the electrical system.

The technology we used was developed through extensive collaboration with a team of electrical integrators at Techsol Marine Inc. Since it was still new at the time, the standards and regulations did not yet account for electric motors. Each new step of the project had to be approved.

Much larger and safer than its predecessor, the Peter-Fraser can operate 100% electrically thanks to the energy stored in its batteries. Its technology remains cutting-edge even 10 years after its launch.

Technical Specifications

  • LENGTH : 33.6 m / 110.2 ft
  • BEAM : 12 m / 39.4 ft
  • OWNER : Société des traversiers du Québec (STQ)
  • NAVAL ARCHITECT : Navtech Inc. / Techsol Marine Inc.
  • SPEED : 8 knots
  • ENGINE : 4x 220 kW/4 Schottel SPJ57 pumps
  • MATERIALS : Steel and aluminum