Kvichak, Nichols Bros Deliver Third WETA Vessel

Kvichak Marine Industries and Nichols Brothers Boat Builders recently delivered the third of four high-speed, environmentally friendly ferries to the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) located in San Francisco.

The M/V Scorpio is a 118-ft by 28.7-ft by six-ft high speed catamaran with a cruise speed of 25 knots at 85% of engine MCR.  The all aluminum vessel has an interior seating capacity for 159 passengers and additional exterior seating for 49 passengers. The vessel will also carry 34 bicycles, which is 20% more than similar vessels in the San Francisco Bay area.  Scorpio will join the fleet of two vessels delivered earlier this year, the M/V Gemini and M/V Pisces.

The vessel incorporates many environmentally friendly features, including low wake wash and shallow draft hulls to reduce the vessels impact on the shoreline and ocean bottom, and an emissions reduction system for the diesel engines.

The vessels exhaust emissions have been reduced by 85% of the current EPA Tier II requirements.  This was accomplished by incorporating a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system into the diesel exhaust.  The vessel will also use ultra low sulfur diesel fuel.

The vessel incorporates enhanced safety and security measures such as a CCTV system, voyage data recorder, added CEDs onboard and additional life saving apparatus that surpasses USCG T-Boat requirements. 

In an effort to draw commuters off the highways, roads and bridges, the interiors of the vessels have many upgrades.  In addition to multiple seating arrangements, all the seats have been enlarged to give a first class feel to entire vessel.  Power outlets have been conveniently located throughout the vessel for commuters to charge portable electronics.  The vessel is also outfitted with a Wi-Fi system.

Specifications:
Length, o.a.    118 ft
Beam    28 ft
Draft    6 ft
Cruising speed    ~26 ft
Fuel capacity    2,400 gal
MTU SCR After Treatment System

(www.kvichak.com)