Japanese operator places inter-island ferry into service

Japanese shipping company Koshikishima Shosen placed a new Ro-Pax ferry into service on the route between the city of Ichikikushikino on Kyushu and the nearby Koshikishima Islands on Thursday, March 20.

Yui Line Koshiki was built by Naikai Zosen Corporation. The ferry has a length of 73 metres, a beam of 13.2 metres, a draught of 3.75 metres, and a depth of 9.6 metres.

The vessel can transport up to 358 passengers plus an assortment of vehicles. A typical vehicle freight loadout may include 19 cars and five trucks.

Two Daihatsu Diesel 6DEM-28 engines that each produce 2,270 kW drive propellers to deliver a service speed of 17.5 knots.

Although the total passenger capacity is around 30 per cent lower than that of Koshikishima Shosen's earlier vessel Ferry New Koshiki, Yui Line Koshiki nonetheless boasts a broader selection of facilities including a children's play area and a nursing room for mothers and infants.

The newer ferry also features barrier-free facilities, seats and lifts to ensure improved access for passengers with limited mobility.