60 INTERIOR VIEW China Zorrilla The world’s largest battery-powered ship will break further records with its interior design when it makes its debut for Buquebus in late 2025 Buquebus’s China Zorrilla is set to break new ground for the maritime industry when it begins sailing in late 2025, becoming the largest battery-electric vessel ever built. The ferry’s first journey between Argentina and Uruguay across the River Plate will mark a significant moment on the journey towards sustainable shipping, as it carries over 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles on a voyage powered entirely by the 250 tonnes of batteries onboard – quadruple the battery installation on any previous vessel. Those first guests will be greeted by a similarly ground-breaking interior when they step onboard. Built by Australian shipbuilder Incat Tasmania, the ship features three main areas: a vehicle deck, a duty-free shop and a passenger deck. The duty-free shopping deck will be the largest retail space on any ferry currently in operation, spanning 2,300 square metres. “This expansive retail area has been designed to create an immersive shopping experience, allowing guests to browse and purchase a wide array of products as they travel between Argentina and Uruguay,” says Tom Cooper, media and communications manager for Incat Tasmania. The passenger area, meanwhile, has been designed to accommodate all 2,100 guests. The layout includes both economy and business-class seating, along with public amenities such as a restaurant, a cafe and a bar. “The passenger deck is a showcase of Incat’s signature approach to comfort and innovation,” says Cooper. “The vessel offers a generous amount of space across its public decks, ensuring guests can travel China Zorrilla will carry 2,100 passengers between Argentina and Uruguay Photo: Incat Tasmania
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