Western Marine Shipyard Limited yesterday laid the keel for a 500 GT Solas passenger vessel.
The 43m long newbuilding, being built for Tokelau, a non- self governing territory of New Zealand, will be able to carry up to 60 passengers and 50 tonnes of cargo and supplies. With a design speed of 11.5 knots, its 270 nm voyage between Tokelau and Apia, Samoa will take just under 24 hours.
Considering the sea conditions, and the length of the voyage, special attention was paid to passenger comfort during the design. The vessel will be equipped with 24 bunk beds, 16 reclining seats, a children’s play area, 80m2 of open deck area for passengers, a sick bay as well as comfortable accommodation for 12 crew.
Delivery of the $6.6 million worth vessel is scheduled for December 2014.
[mappress] SBT Staff, February 20, 2014