Double-ended cat launched in Brazil

Rodriquez Cantieri Navali do Brasil SpA, the Brazilian yard of the Rodriquez Group, launched the first of seven double-ended catamarans under construction for Barcas SA in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. This catamaran will operate on the three-mile route between Rio de Janeiro ? Niteroi route.

The complete vessel is made in aluminum and has a maximum capacity of 1,200 passengers, with 900 seated and 300 standing. The catamaran is equipped with twin azimuthing pod type propulsors with two variable pitch propellers and provide a cruising speed of 18 knots. The newbuilding is scheduled for delivery in July.

Rodriquez Cantieri Navali do Brasil was founded in Rio de Janeiro by Rodriquez Cantieri Navali after the signing of a contract for the construction of ten aluminum catamarans with Barcas SA. This contract stipulated that the construction be in Brasil and hence this new yard was established in Niteroi and opened in August 2003. There are ten catamarans under construction, three CityCat 29?s (29 metre LOA, 25 knots and 230 passengers) and seven CityCat 52DE?s.