Austal Wins Contract For Cruise Vessels
Austal Limited announced that subsidiary Austal Ships has secured a contract for two 226-ft. (69-m) ‘boutique’ cruise ships for operation in French Polynesia. The new order, with a combined contract value of approximately $27.8 million, increases Austal’s total value of vessels under construction or on order to over $202 million. Austal’s managing director, Bob McKinnon said the new contract further highlighted the success of Austal’s diversification strategy, with secured footholds in the luxury, passenger and vehicle ferry, military/defense and tourism markets. The ‘boutique’ cruise ships, which were ordered by Bora Bora Cruises of Tahiti, will be monohull design. Tu Moana and Tia Moana which mean ‘strong on the ocean’ and ‘sure and stable on the ocean’ will accommodate 78 passengers each and will provide luxury cruises between the islands of Huahine, Paiatea, Tahaa and Bora Bora at a cruising speed of 14 knots.Due for delivery in early 2003, the cruise ships will feature a luxurious interior outfit with a variety of onboard facilities including a combination of double and twin share cabins, lounge and restaurant areas, a pool/spa and an array of watersports equipment.