Construction completed on new catamaran tour boat for Alaska operator

Construction has been completed on a new aluminium catamaran vessel ordered by Major Marine Tours of Seward, Alaska.

Designed by Teknicraft of New Zealand, the hydrofoil-assisted, semi-displacement Spirit of Matushka has a length of 87 feet (26.5 metres), a beam of 32 feet (9.7 metres), and seating for up to 150 passengers. Four Scania DI16 082 788hp (587kW) engines driving four HamiltonJet HM422 waterjets propel the vessel to a cruising speed range of between 20 and 30 knots.

The vessel features a wave-piercing hull extension between the catamaran sponsons designed to reduce drag. A HamiltonJet manoeuvring package includes a mouse controller and an anchorless station keeping system.

A fixed aluminium hydrofoil has also been fitted to enhance manoeuvrability at high speeds.

The passenger spaces include two enclosed cabins, an exterior seating area on the upper deck, and an open-air third deck. The interior spaces have tables with USB charging ports at every seat while the exterior seating areas have covered canopies.

The vessel also has wheelchair access throughout the main deck including wheelchair-designated seating areas.

Spirit of Matushka will depart Washington State on its delivery voyage to Major Marine Tours later this week.