The FAST series of conferences take place every two years, the first was held in Norway in 1993. The venue of last conference was Seattle in 1999. FAST 2001 is the 6th International Conference on FAST SEA Transportation to be held in Southampton (UK) 4- 6 September 2001. The event is being organised jointly by The Royal Institution of Naval Architects and the University of Southampton.

The three days of the FAST conference will bring together an international mix of academics, designers, builders, operators, researchers, defence experts and economists who are at the forefront of development in high speed maritime industry. It will provide an invaluable forum for the exchange of information between those involved in the industry. The associated exhibition will also provide a showcase for all aspects of high-speed vessel, from design to construction and services to this sector of the maritime industry. Applications for sponsored places from Student members and Graduate members in full-time education are invited.