Conrad Shipyard Starts Work on New SSA Ferry

Louisiana-based Conrad Shipyard has started construction of a new freight and passenger ferry for Martha’s Vineyard & Nantucket Steamship Authority (SSA), designed by Seattle-based Elliott Bay Design Group (EBDG). 

The new ferry, the Woods Hole, will replace the M/V Governor, the oldest vessel in the SSA’s fleet. The new single-ended vessel will measure approximately 235 feet, have a total person capacity of 384 and a car deck that accommodates 55 standard vehicles or 10 tractor-trailer vehicles. The ferry will include a bow thruster and have a service speed of 14.5 knots.

The Woods Hole will provide service between the Massachusetts mainland, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. Construction of the vessel is expected to be complete in spring of 2016.