Norwegian owner Fjord1 has ordered three electric ferries at Havyard Group.

The vessels, designed by Multi Maritime, will be finished at Leirvik, with hull construction taking place elsewhere, Havyard said.

Delivery of the first is set for May 2018, with the other two coming by the end of that year.

The deal is worth close to NOK 500m ($57.42m).

“The contract proves that we are competitive in particularly strong competition with Norwegian and foreign shipyards,” said sales director of Havyard Ship Technology, Lars Conradi Andersen.

“To us, these contracts are great news as they secure good employment for 2018. Our excellent workforce has shown great adaptability, and it is particularly enjoyable to break this news right before Christmas.

“The market is improving, and we hope to be able to break more good news in the time ahead.”

Two of the ferries will be operated between Brekstad and Valset, while the other will serve Husavik and Sandvikvag.