Halter gets double ender

VT Halter Marine has signed a $31 million contract to build a double-ended passenger/vehicle ferry for Nantucket Steamship Authority in Massachusetts. The 78.15 metre long ferry is expected to be delivered in 2006 and will replace the 54-year-old ferry Islander which serves the Wood’s Hole to Martha’s Vineyard route in Massachusetts.

The newbuilding will be able to accommodate approximately 1,200 passengers and 76 vehicles, will have access for the disabled and hydraulic lift decks for 16 cars for more flexibility in the loading configuration. It will be powered by two diesel engines for a top speed of about 15.5 knots.