Samskip is preparing to introduce two hydrogen-powered SeaShuttle container vessels on its Rotterdam–Oslo service. The first vessel is currently under construction and is expected to be operational in the second quarter of 2027, following final hydrogen upgrades in Rotterdam.
SeaShuttle project in brief
- Operator: Samskip
- Vessels: Two hydrogen-powered shortsea container vessels
- Route: Rotterdam – Oslo
- Shipyard: Cochin Shipyard, India
- Delivery: End of 2026
- Operational start: Q2 2027
- Final upgrades: Hydrogen system installation in Rotterdam
A new generation of shortsea container vessels
The SeaShuttle project represents a new step in the development of alternative propulsion technologies within shortsea shipping. The vessels are designed to operate using hydrogen fuel cells that generate electricity for propulsion and onboard systems.
With the SeaShuttle, Samskip sets a new benchmark in sustainable shortsea shipping.
Robin de Jong, Vessel Manager, Samskip
The first vessel is currently under construction at Cochin Shipyard in India. Once delivered, the ship will undergo final hydrogen system upgrades in Rotterdam before entering commercial service.
The project includes two vessels that will operate as part of Samskip’s container network connecting Norway with European markets.
The Green Corridor: Rotterdam to Oslo by Hydrogen SeaShuttle
Each Seashuttle will operate between Matrans Rotterdam Terminal and the Port of Oslo, establishing a Green Corridor. Samskip is now taking steps to electrify its Matrans terminal in Rotterdam, working towards an entire logistics chain that is powered by renewable energy. With this transformation, the Rotterdam – Oslo route will become emission-free over time, making it an example of how sustainable innovation can reshape maritime transport.
Rotterdam–Oslo corridor
The vessels are intended to operate on Samskip’s Rotterdam–Oslo service, an established shortsea corridor linking Norwegian cargo flows with continental Europe.
This route plays an important role in connecting maritime transport with inland logistics networks across Europe, supporting the movement of containers between ports, terminals, and distribution centres.
Exploring alternative propulsion technologies
Across the maritime sector, shipping companies are exploring a range of alternative propulsion technologies as part of the transition toward lower-emission transport solutions.
Projects such as the SeaShuttle initiative help test how new technologies can be integrated into commercial shipping operations and intermodal logistics networks.