ABOUT THE SOLAR FERRY
The solar ferry was commissioned by the Harlinger Heen & Weer Foundation. The aluminum ferry was designed by Arend Lambrechtsen Naval Engineering from Sneek, and the propulsion and steering system by Henk Jukkema. Students from the Maritime Technology Department of ROC Friese Poort in Sneek carried out the construction. The Jonge Seun was on display at Boot Holland even during construction, and was launched on July 7, 2017.
Twelve solar panels on the roof and a 608 kg traction battery pack power two rudder propellers for an entire day of sailing, one under the bow and one under the stern. These rudders are coupled in opposite directions, with a total steering angle of 180º. The thrust direction and power output of each rudder propeller are individually adjustable, allowing for exceptionally good maneuvering. This is important because a ferry typically sails in a straight line, and frequent mooring and departures take place. Turning on its own axis, sailing on a single engine without counter-steering, sailing sideways, or mooring—it’s all possible. The Jonge Seun responds immediately to steering inputs, which is useful in a busy seaport with currents and often strong winds.
JONGE SEUN?
Harlingen residents are known as “seunen” and “oude seunen” (old seuns), hence the name Jonge Seun for this modern, sustainable solar ferry.
Below is a video about how the Jonge Seun sails and what happens underwater.