A 34m Catamaran Passenger Ferry, Ava Pearl, designed by Incat Crowther and built by Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding , was delivered to Rhode Island Fast Ferry, where it will contribute to an expansion of operations.
As a long-time operator of Incat Crowther ferries, Rhode Island Fast Ferry turned to Gladding Hearn and Incat Crowther to develop and build a ferry with twin engines and propellers, with a view to more efficient operation. Designed specifically for the operation, the lighter, simpler vessel is driven by propellers.
Ava Pearl has entered service, replacing the former Boston Harbor Cruises vessel Millennium (also designed by Incat Crowther) on the ferry run between Quonset Point and Martha’s Vineyard. This has freed up Millennium to increase its sightseeing cruise operation, which will now run daily.
Ava Pearl features 130 seats on the main deck, configured at tables. A large bar is situated aft, with ample luggage racks and toilet spaces. The upper deck features 81 seats in forward-facing configuration, with further seats located outdoors on the aft deck.
The vessel features both trim-tab ride control and a resilient mounted superstructure. Combined with an SBow hull form, these features afford Ava Pearl’s passengers a smooth and comfortable ride.
Ava Pearl is powered by two MTU 12V4000 M53 main engines, each producing 1850hp. In recent trials, she achieved a loaded speed of 31.5 knots and has a top speed of 33 knots.
Main Particulars
Length, o.a. 108.6 ft. (33.1m)
Length, w.l. 106.6 ft. (32.5m)
Beam, o.a. 31.6 ft. (9.65m)
Draft (hull) 5 ft. (1.5m)
Draft (prop) 6.6 ft. (2m)
Depth 12.5 ft. (3.8m)
Passengers 150
Crew 3
Speed (Service) 31.5 knots
Speed (Max) 33 knots
Main Engines 2 x MTU 12V4000 M53
Power 2 x 1380kW (1850hp) @ 1800rpm
Propulsion 2 x Propellers
Generators 2 x Cummins/Onan 55MDDCB 55kW