Red Funnel orders high-speed catamaran

UK ferry operator Red Funnel has placed an order with Wight Shipyard in East Cowes for another 41-metre high-speed catamaran.

Red Jet 7 will be a sister ship to the Red Jet 6, which was built in 2016. For passenger comfort, the accommodation is insulated from the hulls to reduce vibration and cabin noise.

She will be fitted with four main MTU 2000 series diesel engines, each one connected to a Hamilton waterjet unit. This configuration helps to reduce fuel consumption and provides high levels of in-service reliability. Emissions will meet IMO Tier II regulations.

To reduce fuel consumption, the owner opted for vinyl instead of paint for the superstructure to reduce weight, and Teflon hull coatings minimise drag through the water. The installation of a rescue boat on the stern will also enable the vessel to operate outside the confines of the Solent.