Austal has launched its next generation 102-metre high speed trimaran vehicle-passenger ferry at its Western Australian facility.
The vessel will now undergo final fit out prior to the commencement of sea trials in January.
With a customisable seating arrangement for up to 1,165 passengers and capacity for 254 cars, the all-aluminium vessel is scheduled for completion in February 2010 and is currently available for sale.
The vessel has a length of 102 metres, a beam of 26.8 metres, a depth of 7.6 metres and a draught of 4.2 metres. Driven by three MTU 20V 8000 M71L engines, the 700DWT vessel produces 27,300kW at 1,150rpm. Classed by Germanischer Lloyd, the vessel achieves a speed of over 40 knots.
Austal's patented trimaran technology means the vessel uses less power than other high speed craft operating at similar speeds, resulting in lower fuel consumption and improved operating economy.
The vessel also has the ability to maintain higher speeds in waves and operate in higher wave heights, meaning it is less subject to weather induced cancellations and delays. The hullform also reduces waves created behind the vessel which, like the lower installed power, reduces environmental impacts.
Disclosure: Members of the Baird family or companies in the Baird Publications group own shares in Austal.
