The largest high speed catamaran yet built by the shipyard group went to Danish ferry operator Molslinjen and has the capability to incorporate hybrid-fuel engine technology
Austal Philippines has delivered the 115-m, high-speed, vehicle and passenger ferry Express 5, to Molslinjen of Denmark, following the successful completion of sea trials in Balamban, Cebu.
Austal Chief Executive Officer Paddy Gregg said the delivery of Express 5 was a testament to the resilience and capabilities of the Austal Philippines team, who had to contend with a pandemic a super typhoon during the build process.
“To deliver this new high-speed ferry despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic between 2020-2022, and Super Typhoon Rai in 2021, is simply outstanding," he said.
The high-speed catamaran ferry is the largest ferry, by volume, constructed by any Austal shipyard over the company’s 35-year history. Express 5 has the capacity for 1,610 passengers, space for 450 cars (or 617 lane metres for trucks plus 257 cars) over 2 vehicle decks and an operating service speed of 37 knots. It is powered by an LNG-capable, medium-speed power plant that offers a powerful yet economic and environmentally friendly solution. On board, passengers will enjoy leather appointed reclining seats with USB ports, Wi-Fi, a full bistro and bar(s), a children’s play area and multiple audio-visual screens.
“Despite the challenges they faced, the Austal Philippines team has delivered the most impressive vessel ever to join the Molslinjen fleet. The high-speed ferry performed exceptionally well during sea trials and will soon provide a class-leading service to Bornholm in Denmark. Our warmest congratulations to Molslinjen on the delivery of this future-ready fast ferry, with the capability to incorporate hybrid-fuel engine technology achieving lower emissions and greater economy,” Mr Gregg said.
During sea trials, the vessel achieved a top speed of 40 knots and bettered class quality standards for noise and vibration in the passenger decks.
At a delivery ceremony held this week, Austal Philippines President Wayne Murray thanked his team who have now delivered 21 vessels from the Balamban, Cebu shipyard in 10 years.
“It’s fitting that our latest and greatest ship is also the largest ever delivered by an Austal shipyard, anywhere in the world – the team are rightly very proud and are to be congratulated,” Mr Murray said.
The 115-metre catamaran was designed by the same Austal Australia team who developed the original, signature raked-bow hull for Molslinjen’s Express 4 delivered in 2019; and includes Austal’s proprietary Motion Control and MARINELINK-Smart systems that help deliver a smoother journey for passengers and crew and a more efficient, better performing,‘smart’ ship for operators.
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