Estonia has taken delivery of the Kratt, a vessel powered by compressed biomethane
The Estonian State Fleet has taken delivery of a new multifunctional workboat, the Kratt, worth 22 million euros, which runs on compressed biomethane. It will be used for installing navigational aids, conducting research, and responding to marine pollution, according to ERR News.
The vessel was handed over to the State Fleet at the Baltic Workboats shipyard in Nasvi. The Kratt runs on alternative energy sources—renewable biomethane and electricity. Biomethane is methane derived from cow manure. The vessel’s naming ceremony took place on August 12.
Andres Laasma, CEO of the State Fleet, stated that the agency’s mission includes, among other things, testing the reliability of technologies that can be applied in the maritime sector. According to him, compressed biomethane has already proven its suitability on land but has not yet been tested at sea. The State Fleet views the Kratt as a testing ground for this technology.
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Margus Vanasela, head of Baltic Workboats, stated that the construction of the Kratt demonstrates the ability of Estonia and the shipyard to develop complex projects. In his opinion, the vessel could become an export product for Norway and other countries where environmental solutions are a priority.
Sander Laus, captain of the Kratt, who previously worked on the Sektor—a buoy tender with over 30 years of service—noted that the new vessel offers more amenities and is technologically more advanced. According to him, it should significantly ease the crew’s workload.
