China: Afai Southern Launches Second 34m Catamaran

On April 6th 2012, “XUN LONG 6”, the 34m aluminium catamaran fast ferry built by Afai Southern for SHENZHEN XUNLONG SHIPPING CO.,LTD. was launched successfully. The leaders of the shipowner, CCS representatives and leaders from maritime department witnessed the launching ceremony.

“XUN LONG 6” is the second one of 34m-series ferries co-designed and built by Afai Southern. This ship type is with the graceful outline, fine interior decoration and advanced technology performance.

The vessel is powered by a pair of MTU 16V2000 M70 main engines. These engines drive through a pair of ZF4540 gearboxes to MJP 550DD water jets. The structure and stability of the vessel is designed according to the requirements of greater coastal navigation area. The vessel can resist wind of Beaufort Scale 7 and wave of 4m height.

By adopting advanced design from Australia and propelled by twin propulsion engines and waterjets, the ferry has fine performance of sea keeping, high speed and maneuverability.

The 34m, 188 passenger vessel features a mix of passenger classes over two decks. The main deck seats 154 economy class passengers. The forward end of the main deck cabin houses a kiosk, forward of which is a crew room. 3 toilets are located aft on this deck, as is a large electrical room. The upper deck seats 40 in booths with tables, as well as lounge that seats 6. There is an 8-passenger VIP room aft and an additional toilet. Four large luggage containers are accommodated on the aft upper deck, and there are stairs to roof deck. The raised wheelhouse offers excellent visibility over the foredeck, with direct access to external wing control stations for easier and safer berthing operations.

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Source: AfaiSouth, April 13, 2012