Damen launches new RoPax in Timor-Leste

The new ferry is named Berlin-Ramelau, after the capital of Germany and the highest mountain in Timor-Leste, in recognition of funding provided by the governments of both countries. She will operate between the capital Dili, the Oecusse enclave and the island of Ataúro, carrying up to 308 passengers, vehicles and cargo.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, president of the board at APORTIL Flavio Cardoso Neves said that the project successfully completed despite numerous obstacles. “The [Covid-19] pandemic crisis has limited parties from travelling and made difficult the circulation of materials around the world. But the whole team commitment, adaption and perseverance has led us to this day,” he said.

Dr Matthias Schilf of IMS Nord, consultant to APORTIL said that the new ferry demonstrated the best of collaborative efforts. “The construction of the Berlin-Ramelau has been a truly multinational project, calling upon the cooperation of parties in Germany, Timor-Leste, China and the Netherlands,” he said.

Damen sales manager Asia Pacific, Gysbert Boersma thanked the ambassador of Timor-Leste to China, Abrao dos Santos for choosing Damen as well as the company’s German counterparts and APORTIL. “I’d also like to congratulate the shipyard and the project team at Damen HQ – you did a fantastic job,” he said.

The yard will continue with outfitting and in June the ferry will sail to Shanghai for sea trials, leaving for Dili in July.