Helsinki, Finland | November 4, 2025 – Technology group Wärtsilä has announced the signing of a nine-year Lifecycle Agreement with Hankyu Ferry, Japanese ferry operator, aimed at ensuring reliable and efficient operation for its two newest vessels – the Yamato and Settsu. The long-term agreement, booked in Q3 2025, underscores Wärtsilä’s ongoing commitment to enhancing operational performance, sustainability, and service reliability within Japan’s advanced ferry sector.
The Yamato and Settsu ferries, launched in 2020, each measure 195 metres and operate on the Shinmoji–Kobe route, transporting trucks, cargo, and food products between the Kansai and Kyushu regions. These vessels play a vital role in addressing Japan’s driver shortage challenge by enabling long-haul truck drivers to rest while their vehicles are transported across the sea. Maintaining punctuality and efficiency is therefore crucial to Hankyu Ferry’s operations.
Partnership Focused on Reliability and Sustainability
Under the new agreement, Wärtsilä will provide remote operational support, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance through its advanced Expert Insight service. This data-driven solution enables Wärtsilä experts to monitor vessel performance in real time, predict potential issues, and recommend proactive maintenance — ensuring continuous vessel availability and reduced downtime.
“It is important that our ferries can operate sustainably, without disruption, which is why we have chosen to take advantage of this long-term lifecycle agreement with Wärtsilä,” said Tsutomu Nishioka, Technical Manager at Hankyu Ferry. “This allows us to focus on serving our customers, since we can be confident that the ships’ maintenance is being expertly handled.”
The agreement is designed not only to optimise vessel maintenance and reliability but also to minimise fuel consumption and emissions, helping Hankyu Ferry comply with Japan’s stringent environmental and operational regulations.
Wärtsilä’s Lifecycle Solutions Strengthen Maritime Efficiency
Henrik Wilhelms, Director of Agreement Sales at Wärtsilä Marine, highlighted that the collaboration reflects both companies’ commitment to sustainable maritime operations.
“Hankyu Ferry operates in one of the world’s most advanced ferry markets, where environmental and operational standards are very strict,” Wilhelms said. “Our Lifecycle Agreement provides predictive insights and remote support to prevent potential issues and ensure the ferries remain operational. This helps Hankyu Ferry meet its performance, efficiency, and sustainability targets.”
Wärtsilä’s Lifecycle Agreements are tailored to the unique needs of each customer, combining services such as digital monitoring, expert maintenance, and performance-based support. These comprehensive packages provide cost predictability, operational reliability, and environmental performance improvements for shipowners worldwide.
“With our Lifecycle Agreements, we provide a one-stop-shop support model that ensures optimal maintenance procedures and assured sailing schedules,” added Wilhelms. “This approach minimises environmental impact while maximising operational uptime.”
Supporting Japan’s Sustainable Shipping Ambitions
Japan’s ferry industry is recognised globally for its efficiency, safety, and high environmental standards. As operators transition towards greener operations, Wärtsilä’s technologies — such as the highly efficient Wärtsilä 31 engine installed on both the Yamato and Settsu — continue to play a central role in supporting decarbonisation and fuel optimisation across the maritime sector.
About Hankyu Ferry
Hankyu Ferry is a long-established Japanese operator, founded in 1966, that provides a unique overnight cruise experience connecting the Kansai region (Kobe and Izumiotsu/Osaka) with Kitakyushu (Shin Moji) in Kyushu. Their modern fleet is designed to offer a “hotel-like ambiance” onboard, allowing passengers to enjoy a comfortable journey across the scenic Seto Inland Sea complete with amenities like open-air baths, panoramic lounges, and various cabin types ranging from shared bunks to luxurious suites.
As a pioneer in the industry, Hankyu Ferry offers more than just transportation; it provides a memorable voyage, famous for sailing under iconic bridges like the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, making the journey itself a destination.
About Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. The company focuses on driving decarbonisation and efficiency through sustainable technology and digital services. Wärtsilä employs over 17,800 professionals across more than 280 locations in 79 countries, achieving net sales of EUR 6.0 billion in 2023. Wärtsilä is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
About Wärtsilä Marine
Wärtsilä Marine develops next-generation power, propulsion, and lifecycle solutions that accelerate the maritime industry’s transition toward decarbonisation. Its comprehensive offering includes hybrid systems, exhaust treatment, digital technologies, and performance-based lifecycle agreements that ensure efficient, safe, and sustainable vessel operations.
Source: Wärtsilä