VT Halter completes Jean Anne

VT Halter Marine has delivered its largest newbuilding, the pure car and truck carrier Jean Anne, to its owners Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines. The 178 metre long vessel has a capacity of more than 3,000 vehicles on a total of 10 decks, including three hoistable decks that allow the ship’s interior to be adjusted for tall vehicles. Two ramps, a 100 tonne stern ramp and a 20 tonne side ramp, will enable a quick turnaround to be achieved and the ship is capable of carrying military vehicles up to 70 tonnes.

The Californian-based Pasha Group co-owns the $90 million Jean Anne with Strong Vessel Operators LLC of Stamford through a joint venture. Sailing from her home port, San Diego, the newbuilding will begin a fortnightly service to the Hawaiian ports of Honolulu, Hilo, Kahului and Napiliwili. The 20 knot Jean Anne will be the first PCTC to serve the Hawaii market which annually imports approximately 200,000 vehicles with more than two-thirds arriving on Matson ships at present.

Construction of the Jean Anne was begun about four years ago by then-Friede Goldman Halter Marine, but was stopped when the company filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the Federal Bankruptcy Regulations. Work resumed after VT Technologies bought Halter.