Nichols Brothers Introduces Its Biggest Passenger Catamaran Ever

Nichols Brothers, based in Whidbey Island, Wash., recently delivered a 144 ft., 450-capacity passenger catamaran for Catalina Cruises, dubbed Catalina Jet. The vessel, which is the largest passenger catamaran to be constructed by Nichols, will run between Long Beach and Catalina Island at a speed of 36 knots.Employing four Caterpillar electronically controlled 1,950-hp diesel engines, to power Ulstein Bird Johnson waterjets, Catalina Jet is constructed with an active ride control system for comfortable sailing along the Catalina Channel. The system, supplied by Maritime Dynamics is comprised of trim tabs and T-foils beneath the twin hulls to counteract the pitch and roll motions as caused by rough seas.The catamaran is also equipped with three decks with indoor seating for 400 passengers and top side open air accommodations for an additional 50 people, as well as airline type and dinette seating.