High-speed containers

FastShip is to install 250MW (340,000 bhp) in each of its high-speed container ships to achieve a service speed of 40 knots on the route between the USA and Europe. The company is planning expenditure of $220 million for each 1,432 TEU vessel and is currently in negotiations with Avondale, Ingalls, and Nasco yards in the USA.

With a loa of 265m, a beam of 40m and a draught of 10m, the 30,700 dwt vessel will make the journey Philadelphia to Cherbourg in France in less than four days. Five 50MW gas turbines will each be coupled to a water jet, and even when the average wave height increases to 7.5m, FastShip says the the DNV classed ships should be able to maintain service speeds of 35 to 40 knots.