'OceanJet 8', a new fast ferry from Global Marine Design (GMD), has been launched in the Philippines.
Ocean Fast Ferries of the Philippines commissioned GMD in 2005 to design a new heavy-duty ferry, having reviewed the previous GMD vessel 'Sea Flyte'. Designed and cut at GMD's facility in Western Australia, the hull and superstructure kitset was shipped to Cebu for assembly and fitout. The vessel joins the existing Ocean Fast Ferries fleet of seven ferries and will operate a 24/7 service in and out of Cebu, Southern Philippines.
The vessel measures 33.15 metres in overall length and 7.2 metres across the beam, with a draught of 1.50 metres at her working displacement of 108 tonnes. Powered by a pair of Cummins KTA 50 engines, each rated 1,323kW, the vessel has a sprint speed of 28-30 knots and a cruise speed of 22-24 knots. Capable of carrying in excess of 250 passengers, GMD say the vessel boasts an excellent ride with good sea-handling characteristics.
