SCHOTTEL supplies propulsion package for new Mersey ferry
SCHOTTEL selected to supply an integrated propulsion package for Royal Daffodil, the new Mersey Ferries passenger.
Launched in September 2026, designed and constructed by Cammell Laird, the Royal Daffodil has been equipped with two hydrodynamically optimized SCHOTTEL EcoPellers type SRE 210 and one SCHOTTEL TransverseThruster type STT 110. The vessel has achieved a trial speed of 17 knots and is expected to operate at a service speed of 12 knots. The propulsion configuration that is designed to provide precise vessel control and manoeuvring, especially important given the tidal conditions of the River Mersey.
The Royal Daffodil is set to replace the Royal Iris, which served the Mersey for 67 years. The propulsion system aims to fit the specific demands of the operating environment, with changing tidal conditions being only one requirement. The propulsion system must also account or regular docking and undocking, as well as dense surrounding vessel traffic.
Image Credit: SCHOTTEL
Electric drive configuration
Both SRE 210 EcoPellers feature SCHOTTEL’s LE-Drive variant, described by the manufacturer as an “embedded L-Drive”. The fully electric, compact configuration is designed to reduce machinery-space requirements while limiting noise and vibration.
These characteristics are relevant to passenger vessels operating frequent short-distance services, where onboard comfort and efficient use of available space are important alongside propulsion performance.
The two EcoPellers provide the vessel’s main propulsion, while the STT 110 transverse thruster supports manoeuvrability during harbour operations. Together, the systems are intended to facilitate the transition between normal transit and low-speed manoeuvring, helping the vessel maintain control during routine docking and undocking.
The arrangement also supports the operational requirements of a passenger ferry serving a busy urban waterway, where reliable handling is essential to maintaining scheduled services.
Additionally, the compact electric design reduces noise and vibration levels, enhancing passenger comfort which contributes to superior sightseeing operations on a busy river route. The installation reflects the importance of reliability and onboard comfort in propulsion design in passenger vessels.
