The world's largest battery-electric ship, China Zorrilla, has been escorted from the Incat Tasmania shipyard in Hobart to Macquarie Wharf under its own propulsion, ahead of its departure to South America, according to the Tasmanian Ports Corporation (TasPorts).

TasPorts' pilotage team guided the vessel beneath the Tasman Bridge on Saturday, 26 July, as part of the preparatory steps before the ship's onward journey. And this week, the port operator's towage team is set to assist with transferring China Zorrilla onto the heavy-lift vessel Black Marlin, which will carry it to South America.

Built by Hobart-based shipbuilder Incat Tasmania, the China Zorrilla is described as the world's largest battery-electric vessel. Its departure from Tasmania marks the culmination of a complex shipbuilding and marine logistics operation involving local industry, marine services providers and port authorities.

TasPorts stated: "This highlights Tasmania's position as a global leader in advanced shipbuilding and demonstrates what can be achieved through the expertise of local industry, skilled marine services and strong collaboration."

The port corporation added that it was "proud to play its part in supporting world-class projects like this, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of vessels while helping connect Tasmania's industries to international markets".