The Netherlands: Catamaran MERWEDAM Built by Alu Marine Christened

October 3, 2012

MERWEDAM an 23m aluminum catamaran was christened on Friday, September 28th, in Dordrecht by Mrs Ingrid de Bondt, Deputy of Transport of the province of South Holland. This new Waterbus built by Alu Marine shipyard complements the existing fleet of Waterbus network.

Efficient design and layouts for faster operations

The current fast ferry catamarans and their layout that are used on this route, makes them less suitable in busy moments. These catamarans must also sail a longer distance between the two stops because of their speed. With the double-ended MERWEDAM a large efficiency gain will be made.

This new boat will carry up to 200 passengers and 80 bikes on the large deck and the load and unloading will go much faster and easier thanks to the 4 wide gangways.

This 23 meters boat has the particularity of being able to move equally in both directions without having to turn around, reducing the operating time and fuel consumption. The wheelhouse offers a 360-degree view to the pilot and is equipped with a twin steering console and a swivelling seat for manoeuvring from either side.

Low consumption

MERWEDAM is an aluminum catamaran.The lighter weight and hull design makes low water resistance that results in lighter engines. Exceptionally light, this boat ensures low power consumption and excellent manoeuvrability, thanks to her two 160 HP Veth azimuth thrusters, driven by Sisu engines.

Waterbus will allow to drop fuel consumption by 33% of the normal average usage of the current Waterbus ferries (for 80 to 25 litres/hour).

Choice of the shipyard

Waterbus approached 7 shipyards in the European Union during the tender process. Alu Marine shipyard from France offered the optimal experience in alumium ferries and patrol vessels for the French navy.

Main characteristics

Length : 23.00 m

Beam : 8.20 m

Draft : 1.70 m

Propulsion power: 2 x 160 HP Veth drives

Engines : 2x 180 HP SISU

Service speed : 11.8 knots

[mappress]

Press Release, October 3, 2012; Image: alumarine-shipyard