Norway’s largest zero-emission ferry is about to introduce a state-of-the-art lighting system designed to aid deaf and hard of hearing passengers during docking. The electric ferry, operated by Torghatten Nord’s Hinnøy, will operate on the route between Bognes and Lødingen, west of Narvik, Norway.

Glamox, a renowned lighting solutions provider, has equipped the vessel’s passenger lounge with special tuneable LED luminaires, programmed to brighten gradually as the ferry nears the harbour, signalling passengers to prepare for disembarkation. This innovative feature aims to provide extra support for those with hearing impairments. Furthermore, the energy-efficient human-centric lighting also offers the added benefit of mimicking natural daylight and creating a soothing atmosphere within the ferry.

Tommy Stranden, Chief Sales and Commercial Officer for Glamox’s Marine, Offshore & Wind division, said, “The lighting is connected to the vessel’s navigation and positioning system. We use geofencing, which combines awareness of the vessel’s position with awareness of its proximity to its destination so that when the ferry reduces speed as it gets closer to the harbour, the colour, temperature and intensity of the lighting increase. When it comes to a stop and docks, the lighting in the passenger lounge is on full”. He added, “Our human-centric lighting can also provide a calming ambience by mimicking natural daylight and does this by taking into account the position of the ferry in relation to the time of day and sunlight.”

“Our primary goal is to aid the comfort, safety, and well-being of all of our passengers,” said Marius Martin Hansen, CEO of Torghatten Nord AS. “We’ve been a pioneering ferry operator since 1878 and our latest ferry is not only kind to passengers but to the planet as it operates with zero emissions. Connecting people and communities through sustainable ferries means equipping vessels with lighting that’s sustainable too.”

The forthcoming 117-meter-long roll-on/roll-off passenger and vehicle ferry will be the largest zero-emission ferry in Norway, boasting a capacity of 399 passengers and 120 cars. It is powered by electric batteries connected to the onshore grid, with biodiesel generators available as an alternative power source when shore power is inaccessible.

Glamox, a reputable lighting solutions provider, has equipped the ferry with 279 LED tuneable white downlights for the passenger lounge and crew day room, all integrated with a sophisticated light management system. The lighting system is designed to adjust based on presence, ensuring energy conservation in unoccupied areas.

The ferry, constructed at the esteemed Cemre Shipyard in Turkey, is set to commence operations later this year. It features 1,445 marine lights, including navigation lights, control panels, floodlights, searchlights, crew cabin lights, bed lights and emergency lighting.