VESSEL REVIEW | Sanlongwan 2 – Electric sightseeing vessel to serve Foshan City, China

A new electric monohull sightseeing boat has begun operational sailings in inland waters in and around the southern Chinese port city of Foshan in Guangdong Province. Designed and built by Jianglong Shipbuilding, Sanlongwan 2 ("Sanlong Bay 2") is being operated by Foshan Sanlongwan Blue Dolphin Cultural Tourism Company.

The newbuild has all-steel construction, an LOA of 49.9 metres, a beam of 12 metres, a depth of three metres, and capacity for 412 passengers on three decks. Two lithium iron phosphate battery packs with a total output of 3,010 kWh drive two 230kW motors to deliver a speed of just under 10 knots.

The battery propulsion was supplied by the 712th Research Institute of China State Shipbuilding Corporation. China Classification Society, which classed the vessel, said the batteries generate only minimal noise and vibration and are fitted with systems to prevent the phenomenon of thermal runaway caused by lithium cell temperatures exceeding a certain thermal threshold such as during overcharging and overheating.

Onboard facilities include toilets, a galley, a main deck banquet area, and conference rooms that can also be used as private dining areas. The top deck serves as an observation area and also has space for additional dining tables and chairs. Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows provide passengers on the main and upper decks with near-unobstructed views of the surroundings.

Sanlongwan 2 has already commenced nighttime sailings, offering dinner cruises for the public. The vessel may also be chartered for private events.

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