The Province of New Brunswick, Department of Transportation, recently took delivery of a new car/passenger ferry, the Deer Island Princess II, built by Hike Metal. The new vessel is a state-of-the-art design with all functions being operable from the bridge, providing efficient and timely vehicle/passenger loading/unloading turn around. The new ferry replaces an older ferry operating between the busy mainland of L'Etete and Deer Island, New Brunswick. The ferry is designed to carry up to 24 full sized cars stowed in three lanes of eight automobiles, and 95 passengers and four crew. Seating is provided in the accommodation for 14 persons plus a wheelchair allowing a minimum of 18 in. width per person.
The vessel was built under the rules of Transport Canada and survey by the
Canadian Coast Guard, Ship Safety Branch. It is classified to operate in minor waters class II, year round operation. This is the second such ferry of similar design built by Hike in subsequent years. The unique feature of these ferries is the propulsion system which utilizes Rolls Royce Ulstein 360 degree Z-drive units, one positioned at each end of the ferry on the same side. These drives provide excellent maneuverability particularly in tidal conditions such as those encountered in the Bay of Fundy. The vessel is primarily of
steel construction but has a welded aluminum wheelhouse, attached with weldable bi-metallic strip. All sea-water piping was galvanized and external railings are grade 316 stainless steel.
Founded in 1963, Hike Metal Products Ltd. has built vessels for a wide range of Government departments both domestically and abroad.