The 12th International Maritime Student Design Competition, hosted by the Worldwide Ferry Safety Association, focused on creating designs for safe, stable, and affordable domestic ferries, particularly for regions with high accident rates. This edition challenged students to design a 200-pax electric ferry for Lagos, Nigeria, integrating solutions for local constraints such as low-clearance bridges and water hyacinths. Team Black Pearl from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology emerged as the winners with their innovative design, Naija Spirit, a double-deck aluminium catamaran. The vessel features an integrated electric propulsion system and hydrogen fuel cell technology for emergency power, ensuring a sustainable and environmentally friendly transport option. The design process involved meticulous planning to address challenges related to battery weight, optimal operating speeds, and efficiency. Naija Spirit is expected to operate at a maximum speed of 20 knots, complete 10 trips within a 12-hour window, covering a total of 250km. The design showcases the potential for clean energy solutions in maritime transport, offering a competitive and efficient alternative to road transportation.