Austal scoops order for ten ferries

Austal has received a multiple ferry order from Venetian Marketing Services Limited (VMSL) for ten 48 metre passenger catamaran ferries

Adding to its fleet of 36 vessels delivered to China / Hong Kong waters, Austal was able to deliver a proven solution and the best overall package. This included meeting a challenging delivery schedule for the boats to be in operation in 2007 and 2008.

With the capacity to carry 411 passengers at a service speed of 42 knots, the 47.5 metre ferries will provide a link from Hong Kong locations to the new Pac On Ferry Terminal being built by the Macau Government to provide a service to The Cotai Strip on Macau. The Cotai Strip will incorporate a wide range of shopping, entertainment, gaming and convention activities that are currently being constructed.

The Hong Kong to Macau passenger ferry service is already the world?s largest single route in terms of passenger numbers. In the last six months of 2006, 3,962,500 passengers travelled to Macau from Hong Kong, up 6% on the same period of 2005.

The new ferries will add a dedicated transport link to supply The Cotai Strip. In addition to the 411 passengers carried by each ferry on two decks, special cranage and storage for passengers? luggage is also included. Combined with electronic ticketing and onboard hotel check-in, the intention is for the new ferries to provide a seamless final connection for The Cotai Strip?s guests and visitors.

Powered by four MTU 16 cylinder 4000 series diesel engines driving a Rolls Royce / KaMeWa waterjet propulsion system, each ferry is additionally fitted with transom mounted SeaState Interceptors providing an active high speed ride control system for maximum passenger comfort. The vessels are being built in accordance with the requirements and under the survey of DNV, conforming to the International Maritime Organisation High Speed Craft code (HSC 2000) in conjunction with the Hong Kong Marine Department requirements for high speed ferries.