Tanzanian operator Azam Marine welcomes new ferry

Kilimanjaro IX, a 53-m fast ferry, has been launched by AFAI Southern Shipyard in Guangzhou, China and is now set for sea trials. 

The vessel is the 12th high-speed ferry designed by Incat Crowther for the Tanzanian operator and will service Azam Marine’s popular routes to and from Dar-es-Salaam on the Tanzanian mainland and the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Tanga.

The design of Kilimanjaro IX is based on the Incat Crowther-designed ferry platform that has formed the basis of Azam Marine’s growing fleet, while featuring several design enhancements that improve operational efficiency and the customer experience.

Incat Crowther visited the existing fleet in Tanzania to collaborate with the operations and maintenance teams on a comprehensive change register, capturing key opportunities for improvement. A statement said, “These enhancements were incorporated into the vessel specification and design. The implementation was closely monitored by our quality assurance team on site at the shipyard.”

Capable of transporting 679 passengers at speeds of up to 37 knots, Kilimanjaro IX offers indoor seating for 334 passengers on the main deck with 40 additional seats on the fore deck and space for 11 standing passengers on the vessel’s aft deck. The vessel’s air-conditioned main deck also features large luggage storage areas, a kiosk and five bathrooms, including one that is wheelchair accessible. The vessel’s upper deck features covered outdoor seating for 200 passengers as well as a large, air conditioned VIP cabin for 72 passengers in two distinct categories – a 56-seat VIP class, and a 16-seat Royal class. The upper deck also features a large kiosk, four bathrooms and the vessel’s wheelhouse.

Azam Marine and Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries chief executive Abubakar Aziz Salim said, “Incat Crowther has been a trusted partner for our business as we have expanded our fleet. The 11 previous vessels designed by Incat Crowther have been robust, reliable, easy to maintain and fuel-efficient. The launch of Kilimanjaro IX is an important milestone as we grow to meet customer demand. Incat Crowther’s indepth quality assurance process has ensured this project travelled smoothly from commissioning through to design, construction and trials.”

Incat Crowther chief executive Brett Crowther said, “In addition to providing bespoke design support, this project has seen Incat Crowther’s team work closely with our shipbuilding partners at AFAI Southern Shipyard by providing project and quality management services. This partnership sees an Incat Crowther expert regularly on the ground throughout the build phase of the project to streamline communication and has ensured Kilimanjaro IX was delivered to plan.“ 

Kilimanjaro IX will undergo sea trials in late 2025 and enter service in early 2026.