Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Ampere

In a groundbreaking development for maritime transport, the 'Ampere,' recognized as the world's first fully electric ferry, is now up for sale in Norway. This innovative vessel, which began its service on February 16, 2016, was officially appointed for sale by the shipbroker J GRAN&CO AS. Currently, the 'Ampere' operates the scenic ferry route between Lavik and Oppedal in the stunning Sognefjord. The inception of this vessel came about when the ferry route contract was put out to tender, requiring a unique environmental innovation as part of its criteria. This requirement catalyzed the move towards electric ferries in Norwegian waters. The 'Ampere' features an advanced propulsion system developed by Siemens' subsidiary in Trondheim, showcasing cutting-edge technology in eco-friendly transportation. Looking ahead, the Lavik-Oppedal route will transition to four new vessels from the Fjord 1 shipping company, set to commence operations between 2026 and 2034, following a competitive tender process for the route.

On March 12, 2020, the Ampere ferry, which operates along the E39 route between Lavik and Oppedal, was temporarily removed from service as a precautionary measure against the coronavirus. This decision came after it was confirmed that a family member of one of the ferry employees had tested positive for the virus. Following the protocol, the individual was disembarked and underwent testing for potential contamination. In the meantime, the ferry was subjected to thorough disinfection and deep cleaning processes. The ferry operator is actively coordinating with health officials to determine when the rest of the crew can safely return to work, ensuring compliance with all health guidelines provided.

On January 22, 2019, the ferry 'Ampere' encountered significant propulsion difficulties, preventing it from docking at the quay in Lavik. After arriving from Oppedal at approximately 3 p.m., the vessel faced issues with one of its propellers, leaving it adrift in the fjord for half an hour. To assist, the ferry 'Oppedal' (IMO: 9419216) was dispatched and successfully helped the 'Ampere' to safely dock another 30 minutes later. Following the incident, 'Ampere' was withdrawn from service, with the ferry 'Stavanger' scheduled to replace it. 'Stavanger' was en route from Sunnhordaland and was expected to take over operations on January 23 at 10 a.m. Investigations at the Lavik quay revealed that a faulty electrical component had caused the loss of propulsion on one side of the ferry, which is equipped with two identical engine systems. The 'Ampere' eventually arrived in Bergen on February 3. For more details and photos, visit Norwegian news sources linked here: https://www.firda.no/stavanger/nyheiter/lavik/ampere-kom-seg-ikkje-til-land-matte-ha-hjelp-fra-anna-ferje/s/5-15-751432 and https://www.nrk.no/sognogfjordane/bilane-slopne-av-mf-_ampere_-i-oppedal-1.14395200.

On May 31, 2018, the Lavik-Oppedal ferry service faced significant disruptions as technical issues arose with the 'Ampere', causing a reduction in sailing capacity. The 09:30 a.m. departure from Oppedal and the subsequent 10:10 a.m. sailing were both canceled due to a malfunction in the cooling system of one of its engines. This incident followed earlier operational challenges, as the vessel had already suffered battery system failures on May 23, which were eventually repaired on May 28. Passengers utilizing this vital route should be aware of potential delays and cancellations while efforts are made to restore full service.