Rodriquez Cantieri Navali Launches Fast Ferry

“Ramon Llull” (yard number 311), an 84 meter all aluminium fast ferry being built for Balearia Eurolinies Maritimes, was launched today at Rodriquez’s yard in Pietra Ligure, Italy. “Ramon Llull”, named after the thirteenth century Spanish philosopher, has a capacity for 462 passengers divided into 106 for first class, located on the upper deck, and 356 for economy class, located on the main deck. The car deck continues with the innovative arrangement found on the larger Rodriquez TMV 115 in that the central ramps can be raised to accommodate tall vehicles such as buses or trucks. With the decks lowered, the maximum car capacity is 58 cars but with the decks raised, there are 110 lane meters available for these tall vehicles yet still additional space for 22 cars. This flexibility is important to allow Balearia the ability to offer year round operation for all vehicle types. Typically, the summer season will see “Ramon “Llull” optimised for cars but during the less tourist dominated winter season the need to carry trucks is important. Power is provided by four Man B&W 18VP185 diesel engines each connected to a dedicated Lips steerable and reversible waterjet via a Reintjes VLJ 2230 gearbox. This arrangement will provide a service speed of 39 knots based on 90% MCR and with a full load of passengers and cars. Maximum speed is approximately 42 knots. Following the launching, she will be towed to Messina for final outfitting in preparation for delivery early next year. Other technical details can be found in the enclosed documentation.