Cutting edge trimaran ferry exceeds expectations
Austal’s new trimaran ropax ferry undergoing sea trials
Austal’s next generation 102m trimaran has impressed during sea trials, achieving a speed of 39 knots at 90% MCR with 340 tonnes deadweight.
The high speed passenger-vehicle ferry utilises Austal’s patented trimaran technology to deliver improved sea keeping, fuel efficiency, passenger comfort and payload capacity.
The newbuilding is an evolution of Austal’s landmark 2005 trimaran ferry Benchijigua Express. The vessel uses Austal’s trimaran technology, combining the softer roll of monohulls with the low resistance, stability and carrying capacity of catamarans, to open up new markets beyond existing fast ferry designs. A lower roll speed means lower accelerations experienced by passengers, significantly reducing passenger seasickness.
The trimaran’s unique hydrodynamic hull form combined with its three engine propulsion plant, comprising three MTU 20V 8000 M71L high speed diesels, delivers fuel efficiency across a range of operating conditions. Passenger carrying capacity is between 950 and 1,165 depending on layout while vehicle capacity is 245 cars or 190 truck lane metres plus 145 cars.
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