Glenn Williams News

Even a cursory analysis of the performance and capacity specifications of the Auto Express 66 catamaran “Bocayna Express” makes it obvious that Austal Ships has provided Fred. Olsen, SA with a class-leading ferry that reflects each company’s position at the forefront of the international fast ferry industry. Now that the 66 metre vehicle-passenger catamaran has completed sea trials and been handed over, the Australian shipbuilder and Spanish ferry operator are pleased to confirm that both speed and deadweight are higher than previously revealed. During construction every effort was made to save weight and a significant reduction in displacement has resulted in a fantastic improvement in maximum deadweight, which is in excess of 300 tonnes.

Austal Ships today announced a contract to build an 85 metre vehicle-passenger ferry for Greek operator Hellas Flying Dolphins (HFD). The catamaran is the fifth fast ferry HFD has ordered from Austal Ships, demonstrating ongoing confidence in Austal’s capabilities. HFD is Greece’s largest domestic ferry operator, transporting approximately 7 million passengers, 200,000 trucks and 800,000 cars every year. Due for delivery for the 2005 European summer and to be named “Highspeed 5”, the ferry will bring the total number of vessels in the HFD fleet to 24. Austal Sales and Product Development Manager Mr Glenn Williams said the contract rewarded the marketing effort the company has dedicated to the Greek market over many years.

Austal has designed, constructed and delivered three 22 metre patrol boats to the Kuwait Coast Guard (KCG). In addition to three crew “Kassir”, “Dastoor” and “Mahroos” can each carry 41 people and will be used primarily for the transport of KCG crew and personnel to outlying islands at speeds of approximately 25 knots. The vessels were launched three months ahead of schedule and met all performance criteria on sea trials in Australian waters prior to being shipped to the Gulf region.

Austal is pleased to announce a contract for a 67 metre high speed vehicle-passenger catamaran for Virtu Ferries of Malta adding to an already healthy order book for the West Australian shipbuilder. The new vessel is scheduled for delivery to Virtu Ferries in time for the European 2005 summer season and will have the capacity to carry 600 passengers and 65 cars or 95 lane metres of trucks plus 35 cars. Commenting on the contract Austal’s Managing Director, Mr Bob McKinnon said, “This latest order for a mid-sized car ferry is particularly pleasing in that it adds another important customer to our extensive list of clients. Established in 1988 Virtu Ferries operates fast ferry services between Malta and Sicily.

Austal Ships has reported that a pair of cruise yachts ordered by Bora Bora Cruises of Tahiti are in the final stages of fitout at its modern shipyard south of Perth, Western Australia. “Tu Moana” and “Tia Moana” (meaning ‘strong on the ocean’ and ‘sure and stable on the ocean’) each provide 74 passenger berths in 37 outside cabins. The two cruise yachts will feature a high degree of comfort and luxury with a modern design inspired by Tahitian traditional art and incorporating the European touch of Tillberg Designs. Onboard features include a restaurant and galley catering for all passengers in a single sitting, gymnasium, library, indoor and outdoor lounges, two jacuzzis, an expansive sun deck and a host of watersports equipment, with easy access to the water.

Austal Ships has been selected to supply a fleet of 10 patrol boats to the Republic of Yemen, Ministry of Defence. Based on a proven hullform, the 123 ft. (37.5 m) aluminium monohulls will provide the level of capability the Yemenis require in a reliable, simple to operate vessel that is easy to maintain. The low risk that such a combination ensures is also being provided at a low acquisition cost for the purchaser, with the total contract price for the 10 vessels, spares, and a substantial package of training for 60 personnel coming in at well under $55 million. The keys to achieving this highly cost-effective package are the efficient, high productivity design and manufacturing techniques that Austal has developed through the construction of more than 90 boats over 15 years.