Samsung bags third Norfolkline ferry

Norfolkline, the Dutch ferry company, has ordered a third 34,500gt Ropax ferry from Samsung Heavy Industries in Korea to meet growing demand on its Dover to Dunkerque cross channel freight and passenger services. The first two were ordered last year at a cost of $90 million each.

The lead ship of these 186.60 metre long, 28.40 metre wide vessels is due to enter service in July 2005 followed by the second later that year in November, while the third is planned to enter service in June 2006.

The power plant for each ferry will comprise of four 9,600kW MAN B&W 8L48/60B medium-speed diesels driving two skewed bladed CP propellers giving a service speed of 25 knots. Manoeuvrability will be enhanced with the fitting of three 1,800kW bow thrusters and one stern thruster.

In addition to carrying 780 passengers, each ferry will have a 2,900 lane metre capacity providing space for 200 cars and 120 freight vehicles which will be loaded and discharged via a bow and stern door.

The ships? facilities are accommodated over nine decks and will include separate and exclusive decks for passengers and freight drivers respectively. For the tourist market, the company will continue to focus on the needs of the motorist by carrying only cars, caravans, motor homes and motorcycles.