New Irish Fast Ferry Using Caterpillar Engines

A new 272-passenger high-speed monohull ferry, for Island Ferries of Galway, Ireland, has been delviered, and is currently making 10-nautical-mile commuter and tourist crossings between Galway and Aran Island. Draiocht Na Farriage (Magic of the Sea), a 123-ft. aluminum vessel, was designed and built by WaveMaster International, Henderson, West Australia. The design incorporates a substantial keel, fine entry lines and steep deadrise. Two chines give the hull a narrower waterline beam underway for speed, while adding stability and buoyancy as the vessel slows down and the hull immerses. Both strength and stability are maximized to withstand fierce North Atlantic sea conditions. The new ferry is powered by three Cat 3412C marine engines, each rated 1,050 bhp at 2,300 rpm. The 3412s drive 39 in. dia. Teignbridge Aquaquin propellers through ZF BW 190 marine gears. Service speed at 30 dwt is 24 knots. Island Ferries selected Cat 3412s because service and parts are readily available and local trawlers report high reliability records from the engine. Regulations governing maximum vessel length and requiring an all-steel deck had to be overcome to make the boat economically feasible. The local length restriction was eased, allowing increased passenger capacity. Above the engine room, .12 in. steel plating was incorporated into the otherwise aluminum deck as required by Irish Marine Department regulations. Passenger comfort has been improved through the use of noise reduction materials, resulting in sound levels under 74 dBA. Length, Overall: 122.7 ft. Beam: 26.2 ft. Operating Draft: 8 ft. Hull Depth: 9.8 ft. Passenger Capacity: 272 Speed Fully Loaded: 24 knots Propulsion Engines: (3) Cat 3412C, each rated 1,050 bhp @ 2,300 rpm Marine Gear: (3) ZF BW 190, 2.571:1 reduction Propellers: (3) Teingbridge Aquaquin 39 x 41 in., five-blade Nibral