Fred Olsen has selected Austal limited to build a two high-speed ro-pax trimaran ferries in a deal worth AUD 190m ($148m).
The two 117 metre vessels will be the second and third trimarans built for Fred Olsen who already operate the world’s first and largest trimaran vehicle passenger ferry, the Benchijigua Express – built by Austal in 2005.
The two new trimarans will each be capable of transporting over 1,100 passengers and up to 276 cars at speeds of up to 38 knots.
Work on the ferries will start in 2018 at a yet to be determined shipyard with deliveries set for 29 and 36 months after the start of construction.
“It is truly exciting to announce this major shipbuilding contract with Fred Olsen, who had the courage and foresight to work with Austal’s advanced trimaran technology in developing the Benchijigua Express in 2005,” said Austal chief executive David Singleton.
“The Benchijigua Express has become an industry benchmark for blue-water commercial ferry operations, exceeding expectations for performance, speed and customer experience in the Canary Islands.”
Austal Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ben Marland added: “This is a watershed contract for our next generation trimaran design that will deliver new levels of seakeeping, passenger comfort and efficiency, and proves the trimaran is the right tool for the job in the challenging sea conditions of the Atlantic. It is a game-changer in the market.”
