Australia-based Austal will build its largest catamaran to date following an order from Denmark's Nordic Ferry Services for the design and construction of a 113-metre high speed vehicle-passenger ferry.
The vessel will be built by Austal's Western Australian workforce and is scheduled for delivery in 2011.
Designed to carry 1,400 passengers and 357 cars, the vessel will be among the world's top ten high speed ferries in terms of capacity.
The ferry is intended for operation between Rønne on the Danish island of Bornholm and Ystad in southeast Sweden where it will join Danish operator BornholmsTrafikken's existing 86–metre Austal catamaran 'Villum Clausen', which has been operating along the route since 2000.
With a maximum speed of up to 40 knots, the vessel will deliver an improved transportation service to Bornholm residents while also meeting the seasonal demand generated along the route by holiday makers.
With Danish environmental regulations for fast ferries among the most stringent in the world, Austal's design is required to comply with legislation covering environmental noise, wave-wash and exhaust emissions. The design also minimises the need for alterations to the route's existing port infrastructure, enabling both the 113-metre catamaran and the 86-metre 'Villum Clausen' to operate in the summer season using the same vehicle and passenger ramps.
Three car decks accessible via both bow and stern ramps will ensure the efficient transfer of the catamaran's large vehicle capacity. Passenger seating is situated across two levels, with lounge-style facilities situated on the vessel's bridge deck and accessible via a large staircase. A fully equipped catering area, separate bar facility, a dedicated shopping area and two child play rooms are also located on the upper deck.
The vessel will be powered by four diesel engines and will be built in accordance with the requirements and under the survey of Det Norske Veritas, conforming to International Maritime Organisation HSC Codes.
Nordic Ferry Services is a joint venture between BornholmsTrafikken and Clipper Group.
