Austal has launched Maltese operator Virtu Ferries' new 107-metre high-speed vehicle-passenger catamaran 'Jean de la Valette' at its Western Australian facilities.
Intended to address increased heavy cargo traffic between Malta and Italy, the vessel has the capacity to carry 800 passengers and 156 cars at a speed of approximately 39 knots and is on schedule for delivery in August.
The ferry will be Austal's 24th commercial delivery to operators in the Mediterranean region, which includes 14 large vehicle-passenger ferries, and will join Virtu Ferries' existing 68-metre Austal vehicle ferry 'Maria Dolores'.
Designed to efficiently accommodate private passengers with cars and campers, commercial tourist operators and trucking companies, the vessel's vehicle deck has the capacity to carry up to 156 cars or 45 cars and 342 truck lane metres. Vehicle loading and unloading will be achieved via ramps installed on both the stern and port-side.
Seating for the ferry's 800 passengers is spread over two decks, each offering a passenger-friendly seating density of two to three seats per row, as well as a dedicated upper deck lounge area overlooking the vessel's bow.
Powering the vessel are four MTU 20V 8000 M71L diesel engines producing 9,100kW each and driving Rolls-Royce Kamewa waterjets.
The vessel is being built in accordance with the requirements and under the survey of Det Norske Veritas, conforming to International Maritime Organisation HSC Codes and Malta Flag State and Italian Port State Regulations. Registration will be under the Malta Flag.
The vessel is on track to commence sea trials in June.
Disclosure: Members of the Baird family or companies in the Baird Publications group own shares in Austal.
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