GE to service Buquebus ferry turbines

GE Marine has secured a customised service agreement with ferry operator Buquebus, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, covering the two GE LM2500 gas turbines onboard the fast ferry Francisco. The 10-year agreement provides for scheduled and unscheduled maintenance for the dual-fuel gas turbines that power the world’s fastest commercial ship.

Under the service contract with Buquebus, GE will provide gas turbine maintenance, including: onsite and field service support, select component repair and replacement, engineering, technical and troubleshooting support, and engine leasing. In addition, any depot level work will be performed in Italy at GE’s aviation business Avio Aero’s Brindisi facility.

GE Marine’s vice president, marine operations, Brien Bolsinger said: “We worked closely with Buquebus to fashion a gas turbine maintenance agreement that would meet their specific needs and ensure reliable operation of this fast ferry. This tailored agreement ensures this wave piercing catamaran continues to swiftly move thousands of passengers and cars on its River Plata crossing between Argentina and Uruguay.”

The Francisco was built by Incat in Tasmania and delivered in June 2013. On trials it achieved a speed of 58.2 knots. It is powered by two dual-fuel GE gas turbines, burning liquefied natural gas or marine gasoil. It has capacity for over 1,000 passengers and 150 cars.