Voith Schneider Propeller Continues to Support Offshore, Ferry and Tugboat Operations After 100 Years

Voith Schneider Propeller Continues to Support Offshore, Ferry and Tugboat Operations After 100 Years

(IN BRIEF) Voith is celebrating 100 years of the Voith Schneider Propeller, a propulsion system first tested in 1926 that combines steering and thrust control in one unit. Its continuously adjustable vertical blades allow vessels to generate thrust in any direction, supporting precise manoeuvring in ports, confined waters, offshore locations and difficult weather conditions. The technology is used on tugboats, ferries, offshore vessels, research ships and other specialised craft. Voith is continuing its development through the electric eVSP, which combines the system’s manoeuvrability with electric drives and intelligent control technology to support lower emissions, improved positioning and reduced operating costs, particularly in the offshore wind sector.

(PRESS RELEASE) HEIDENHEIM, 6-Jul-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Voith is marking the 100th anniversary of the Voith Schneider Propeller, a marine propulsion system developed to combine thrust generation and steering within a single unit.

First tested in 1926, the technology has become established in demanding maritime applications where precise manoeuvring, rapid response and reliable handling are essential. Today, it is used on tugboats, ferries, offshore vessels and a range of specialised ships.

The concept was created by Austrian engineer Ernst Schneider, born in 1894. His original propeller design was successfully tested at the Vienna Ship Model Basin in 1926. Voith recognised the potential of the system at an early stage and developed it into a commercially viable marine propulsion solution.

Two years later, in 1928, the vessel Torqueo became the first ship to operate with a Voith Schneider Propeller.

Unlike conventional propellers, the VSP uses several vertical blades arranged on a circular rotor. As the rotor turns, the blades continuously adjust their pitch. This allows thrust to be controlled smoothly and directed in any direction, giving vessels immediate 360-degree manoeuvrability.

The system enables fast reactions to steering commands and supports safe handling in confined waterways, ports, currents, wind and rough sea conditions. Its relatively low rotational speed also contributes to robust operation and lower underwater noise levels.

Over the past century, Voith has continued to develop the technology by examining the interaction between vessel hulls, propulsion systems, operating profiles and control technology. The company uses flow simulations, model testing and marine research facilities to assess and refine new designs before they are deployed in practical applications.

“We do not consider the hull and propulsion system separately, but as an integrated overall solution,” said Dr Dirk Jürgens, Vice President Research & Development Marine at Voith Turbo. “This approach has consistently proven its value in practice and has significantly contributed to the continuous advancement of the design, efficiency and performance of the Voith Schneider Propeller.”

The VSP is used in offshore supply operations, harbour assistance, ferry services and other specialist maritime activities. Offshore vessels can combine the propulsion system with dynamic positioning technology for complex work near wind farms and offshore platforms. Rapid thrust changes can also help reduce vessel roll motion.

Voith Water Tractors use the system’s responsive and precise thrust control when assisting large vessels in ports, narrow channels and offshore terminals. Double-ended ferries can dock and depart without turning around, even in difficult weather and current conditions.

An important part of the technology’s continuing development is the electric Voith Schneider Propeller, or eVSP. The system combines the hydrodynamic and manoeuvring characteristics of the conventional VSP with electric drive technology and intelligent controls.

The eVSP is particularly relevant for vessels supporting the offshore wind sector, where operators require accurate positioning, high operational reliability and lower emissions. It is designed to support heavy-duty offshore tasks while helping vessel owners manage fuel use and operating costs.

“Today, our customers expect not only maximum manoeuvrability but also solutions that reduce emissions and operating costs,” said Michael Rommel, Head of Sales & Application Management at Voith Turbo. “With the eVSP, we are laying the groundwork for efficiently combining these requirements.”

Beyond offshore work, the technology is also used on research vessels, river cruise ships, yachts and other specialised vessels. Modern VSP installations are designed to reduce noise and vibration while improving onboard comfort. When combined with Voith roll-stabilisation systems, the propulsion technology can offer additional support for demanding marine operations.

“The history of the Voith Schneider Propeller shows how a bold engineering idea can evolve into a globally proven product,” said Jürgens. “Its versatility, precision and continuous development give us confidence that this exceptional technology will continue to play a key role in maritime operations for decades to come.”

To coincide with the 100-year anniversary, Voith has also highlighted its iVSP ship simulator, which enables users to explore the manoeuvring behaviour of the propulsion system on Windows desktop and mobile devices.

Koehler at Maximilian Verlag has published a technical book titled Voith Schneider Propeller – A Brilliant Invention. The publication examines the history, operating principles, technical development and applications of the VSP.

About the Voith Group
The Voith Group is a global technology company. With its broad portfolio of systems, products, services and digital applications, Voith sets standards in the markets of energy, paper, raw materials and transport. Founded in 1867, Voith today has around 21,000 employees, sales of € 4.8 billion and locations in over 60 countries worldwide and thus is one of the larger family-owned companies in Europe.

About Voith Turbo
The Group Division Voith Turbo is part of the Voith Group and a specialist for intelligent drive technology, systems as well as tailor-made services. With its innovative and smart products, Voith offers highest efficiency and reliability. Customers from highly diverse industries such as oil and gas, energy, mining and mechanical engineering, ship technology, rail and commercial vehicles rely on the advanced technologies and digital applications of Voith.

Media Contact:

Naomi Voith
Head of Solutions Portfolio Communications
tel: +49 7321 37-2209

SOURCE: Voith