Thailand's Australian-owned Gold Coast Ships has delivered their latest vessel to Australia, the high-speed ferry 'Calypso 10'.
It was launched by the Australian ambassador to Thailand, Paul Robilliard, at a ceremony at Gold Coast Ships' shipyard at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Thailand. Thai and Australian trade commission officials were also present.
The vessel is the third ferry built by Gold Coast Ships for the Port Douglas-based tourist operator, Calypso Reef Charters, who will use the 'Calypso Ten' on cruises, reef tours and dive trips.
It is 24.8 metres long, has a beam of 9.0 metres, a draught of 1.79 metres and a total depth of 2.36 metres.
Powered by two 720kW engines from MTU, the vessel achieved a top speed of 30 knots during sea trials. However, the cruising speed will be limited to 25 knots for its Australian operations.
A slim, deep-V, plumb bow, semi-displacement hull that has been used on other 20-metre vessels was chosen for this vessel, as it has been proven to be efficient. Fuel consumption is economical with the engines using only 130 litres per hour while travelling at 25 knots and only 85 litres per hour while travelling at 20 knots.
