Baku Shipyard builds next-generation Ro-Pax ferry for Caspian routes VIDEO

Construction of a next-generation Ro-Pax ferry at the Baku Shipyard, commissioned by the Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Closed Joint-Stock Company (ASCO), part of AZCON Holding, is progressing on schedule.

The overall project is now 70% complete, with 99% of the hull and engineering systems finished and 94% of the required equipment and materials procured. Work is ongoing on electrical, mechanical, and insulation systems, as well as crew accommodations, Mehman Mehdiyev, ASCO spokesperson, told Caliber.Az.

The new ferry, the third Ro-Pax vessel in ASCO’s fleet, is expected to significantly improve the continuity and resilience of growing cargo and passenger flows across the Caspian region and along the Middle Corridor. Compared to earlier vessels of this type, it incorporates a range of structural and functional innovations.

Key enhancements include:

• A 3-ton capacity service crane and additional compressed-air tanks

• A separate power supply for refrigerated containers

• A gas-detection system in the cargo hold

• Extra safety features, including foam fire-extinguishing guides, two sliding doors, one metal door, and an additional hatch

• An automatic railway track clearance system and a new cargo deck braking system

Innovations in the main engine room include an additional cooling system, two service hatches, and two maintenance cranes. The vessel has been designed with energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact as core principles.