Austal Philippines has begun construction on a new 32-metre catamaran ferry ordered by Western Australia-based transport company Rottnest Fast Ferries.
The new ferry will operate on the Perth to Rottnest Island tourism route.
Upon completion, the vessel will have all-aluminium construction, a length of 32 metres, and an operational capacity of up to 400 passengers and five crewmembers seated across three decks. It will also feature extensive cargo and luggage space for passengers, including bicycle storage areas on the main and middle decks.
The main deck vessel will have seating for 202 passengers and will also feature a large bar and kiosk area, as well as five toilets. The vessel's mid-deck will meanwhile have seating for 143 passengers including 68 passengers in a spacious aft deck that has been designed to protect occupants from the elements.
The aft deck will also provide access to the vessel's open-air sun deck, which is fitted with 56 seats.
Two MAN D2862 1,029kW diesel engines driving fixed-pitch propellers will deliver an operating speed of 25 knots, allowing the ferry to complete the 30-kilometre-journey from Hillarys Boat Harbour in Perth to Rottnest Island in as little as 45 minutes.
The ferry is scheduled to be in operation in December, ahead of the peak tourist season in Western Australia.
