Commencing this summer, passengers traveling from Point Judith to Block Island, R.I. by ferry, can, for the first time, make the trip in about half the time. In July, Island Hi-Speed Ferry received a new 99-ft. (30.4 m) Athena, a high-speed catamaran ferry built by Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding. The 250-passenger fast ferry has a top speed of 34 knots when loaded with a dwt of 18.6 tons, and completes the 12-mile ocean crossing in about 22 minutes, according to shipyard officials. Designed for commuter and tourist service by Incat Designs of Sydney, Australia, the ferry is operated by the start up company partnered with Boston Harbor Cruises.
