Incat Crowther Announces Construction of New Passenger Ferry for New Zealand

Incat Crowther announced commencement of construction of a 26m Catamaran Passenger Ferry at Aluminium Marine in Queensland. The vessel has been commissioned by Southern Discoveries of New Zealand’s South Island.

The new vessel will operate out of Queenstown, transferring passengers to isolated destinations on Lake Wakatipu. The vessel will be constructed with a removable wheelhouse, allowing it to be carried overland by truck to the lake.

After a review of many design options, Incat Crowther was awarded the design contract on the basis of its ability to work within the tight parameters of the New Zealand government environmental consent whilst contributing innovative thinking to the project. Central to the award was the development of a versatile and capable vessel, with a focus on low capital cost.

The vessel’s aesthetic was developed to integrate into Queenstown’s environment without compromising the vessel functionality or performance.

In the development of the vessel’s hull form, fuel efficiency has been optimized whilst retaining passenger comfort, a robust structure and good engine serviceability. Due to the remote nature of the operation, specific attention was given to the development of durable systems.

The vessel features 170 seats, 127 being inside the main deck passenger cabin. A large bar and kiosk will provide concession service aft. The outboard seats are arranged in booths with tables. Large double doors provide access to the cabin from the large aft boarding gates. The aft main deck features overhead hangers for bicycles and three toilets.

The upper deck features wheelhouse and 43 exterior seats.

The vessel will be powered by a pair of Yanmar 6HYM-WET main engines, rated at 478kW. Propulsion is via fixed pitch propellers. The vessel will have a top speed in excess of 25 knots.

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Incat Crowther, February 4, 2013