Tanzania gets new catamaran ferry

It is the third vessel from the designer builder partnership of Incat Crowther and RDM, and was developed following the success of Kilimanjaro I and Kilimanjaro II which were delivered, respectively, in July 2009 and August 2010. The ferry operator wanted to develop a larger, faster and more versatile vessel and the result is a 558-passenger vessel that is larger than any other vessel on the Zanzibar – Dar es Salaam route and capable of tackling the more rugged offshore route to the island of Pemba.

Taking advantage of a broader beam than its predecessors, the newbuilding’s passengers are accommodated in a mix of seating levels and styles on three deck levels. Economy class passengers are seated in leather reclining seats with full air-conditioning, a kiosk with a table seating area, and expansive, full wrap-around views from the large tinted windows. First class passengers on the mid deck enjoy a luxurious seating arrangement utilizing large reclining leather seats complete with leg support. All of the interior seats are supplied by George Eknes of Norway.

Outdoor seating from Beurteax Australia is provided on the open upper deck as well as on the awning-covered aft mid deck while additional bench seating is provided on the bow and across the stern to maximise capacity.

The wheelhouse is a spacious area with wrap around visibility and is fitted with three Beaurteax helm seats and access to wing control stations.

Kilimanjaro III features Incat Crowther’s new generation hull form which offers increased efficiency and improved sea-keeping. She is powered by a pair of Cummins KTA50 M2 engines, each producing 1,340 kW at 1,900 rpm. Excellent performance on sea trials proved the virtues of the hull form during which loaded performance was recorded at over 31 knots; service speed will be 29 knots at 77% MCR.

Principal dimensions

Length oa 38.10m
Length waterline 37.30m
Beam 10.50m
Draught maximum 1.80m
Depth 3.65m
Passengers 558
Service speed 29 knots
Main Engines 2 x Cummins KTA50 1,340kW @1,900 rpm
Propulsion 2 x propellers
Generators 2 x Cummins 170kVA, 1 x Cummins 17kVA
Service speed 29 knots