Damen lands another Turkish ferry contract

Damen signed a shipbuilding contract with ferry operator Istanbul Deniz Otobusleri (IDO) of Turkey, for construction and delivery of 2 double-ended car ferries of the Damen Fast RoPax (DFR) 8521 design.

The ferries will be delivered in 2008 and will operate on the existing line between terminals at Pendik and Yalova. With frequent departures and a transit time of only 30 minutes, this route saves travellers a 2 hours car journey around the bay of Izmit.

The double ended DFR 8521 is an aluminium catamaran, designed to transport up to 112 cars and 600 passengers at a service speed of 22 knots. The propulsion system consists of four diesel electric engines powering four thrusters, providing high operability and fuel efficiency. A large open car deck ensures quick and efficient embarkation / disembarkation from both ends. The accommodation deck has comfortable seating and facilities for passengers during the short voyage.

Following last year’s takeover of local ferry company TDI (Turkish Maritime Lines), IDO is now one of the world’s largest ferry operators. An extensive newbuilding programme has been started and IDO will soon operate a fleet of around 90 fast and conventional ferries.

In another project for IDO, Damen is currently finalising construction of 5 sea buses of Damen’s DFF 4212 design. These ferries will be delivered in Istanbul during the first half of 2007.