The zero-emission ferry, named "Salicórnia", enables local residents and visitors to set over to and from São Jacinto within minutes from downtown Aveiro and the neighboring communities while reducing their carbon footprint. The new electric vessel can transport 260 passengers and 19 vehicles.

This means a substantial increase in capacity compared to the old ferry, which was propelled by fossil fuel (diesel). The change to electric power is expected to eliminate about 300 tons of carbon dioxide emissions from the atmosphere annually. Low noise levels and a 360º panoramic view from the top deck allow passengers to enjoy a quiet ride and unique sights of the Ria Aveiro and São Jacinto.

Electric ferry "made in Portugal"

Salicórnia was designed and built entirely in Portugal by national companies. This undertaking significantly advances the country's maritime transport infrastructure, emphasizing sustainability and innovation. Local community leaders, environmentalists, and proponents of sustainable tourism have hailed Salicórnia as a pioneering project on the Iberian Peninsula.

Image: The photo shows Portugal's first fully electric new car ferry on its way from São Jacinto, Aveiro to Forte de Barra in early February 2024. Photo: Casa dos Jacintos
360º panoramic views of the lagoon: the new car ferry to São Jacintory contributes
to sustainable transport and tourism in the Aveiro region. Photo: Casa dos Jacintos

To ensure a smooth transition, the old car ferry “Cale de Aveiro” will serve as a backup vessel during the first months of the new boat's operation. Aveiro's modernization of the Forte da Barra - São Jacinto ferry connection represents an investment of more than €9 million, including the charging stations. It aims to reduce the environmental impact in the maritime sector while strengthening Aveiro's position as a premier destination for eco-tourism in Europe.

Salicórnia was built by the ETE Group, owner of the Navaltagus shipyard in Seixal. The new ferry was financed by Aveiro and co-financed by various entities, including POSEUR, Portugal 2020, and the European Union through the Cohesion Fund.

Salicórnia: What's in a (ferry's) name?

The vessel's name was chosen for its symbolic value. It speaks to the sense of place, grit, and ingenuity that the Aveirenses (Portuguese for "people of the Aveiro region") have historically shown in the face of adversity.

Image: The photo shows Aveiro's new ferry on its way from Forte de Barra to São Jacinto, Portugal on an evening in early February.
Silent ride at sunset: Aveiro's new ferry on its way from Forte de Barra to
São Jacinto. Photo: Casa dos Jacintos

So what does "Salicórnia" actually mean? Aveiro named its innovative vessel after a plant species, the "Salicórnia Perennis" (glasswort). Salicórnia is a halophyte that thrives in saline environments such as salt marshes. The plant plays a crucial ecological role in the Aveiro lagoon with its extensive salt marshes, contributing to the area's overall environmental diversity and balance.

Like the people of Aveiro, who trace their roots back more than 3,000 years to Phoenician seafarers, the plant is known for its resilience and adaptability.

Bookmark for your trip: Forte da Barra - São Jacinto - Forte da Barra Ferry Schedule 


Alex writes about travel, tech, and business.

Are you planning to visit Portugal? Book your stay and get tips for your upcoming visit from your host at Casa dos Jacintos in São Jacinto, Aveiro. Rent a vacation home only a few steps from São Jacinto's quaint fishing harbor promenade and the electric ferry, and in walking distance from its unspoiled beaches.