South Korean builder taps Incat Crowther for high-speed ropax

South Korean shipbuilder Kangnam has selected Incat Crowther to design an 80-m high-speed ropax ferry for Korea Express Ferry (KEF), serving routes between Incheon Metropolitan City and the Yellow Sea islands of Daecheongdo, Baengnyeongdo, and Socheongdo in Ongjin County.

The project builds on Incat Crowther, Kangnam, and KEF’s earlier collaboration on Korea Pride, a 72-m passenger ferry operating from Incheon since 2022.

The new vessel will replace the ageing ropax on these lifeline routes. With capacity for up to 60 cars or 50 utility trucks, and 572 passengers plus 12 crew, it is designed to meet growing demand and support island economies. A vehicle deck optimised for flow, twin pedestrian ramps for step-free access, and a bespoke stern ramp will streamline boarding and disembarkation.

Passenger facilities will span four seating classes – economy, premium, business, and first – and include dedicated spaces for parents, pets, and wheelchair users. The air-conditioned passenger deck will feature a kiosk and pantry, cargo and luggage holds, a medical room, ample bathrooms, a smoking room, and massage chairs for business and first-class passengers.

Propulsion is a key feature. Six MTU 16V 4000 M65L main engines, each rated at 2,560 kW at 1,800 rpm, will drive six waterjets via gearboxes, improving redundancy, manoeuvrability, and ease of maintenance while targeting lower fuel consumption. An aft control station will give the captain improved visibility during docking. The aluminium-hulled catamaran ferry will reach service speeds of 36 knots.

KEF chief executive Sung Man Hwang said the new ferry “represents a significant investment in connecting Ongjin County communities with Incheon City. The enhanced vehicle capacity will provide crucial support for local businesses and residents, while the vessel will ensure reliable, comfortable service for years to come.”

Construction is scheduled to begin in H2 2026, with delivery anticipated in 2028.