Austal has successfully launched its next generation 102 metre high speed trimaran vehicle-passenger ferry at its Western Australian facility. With a customisable seating arrangement for up to 1165 passengers, capacity for 254 cars and a maximum speed of more than 40 knots, the all-aluminium vessel is scheduled for completion in February 2010 and is currently available for sale.

Austal’s patented trimaran technology means the vessel uses less power than other high speed craft operating at similar speeds, resulting in lower fuel consumption and improved operating economy. The vessel also has the ability to maintain higher speeds in waves and operate in higher wave heights, meaning it is less subject to weather induced cancellations and delays. The hull form also reduces waves created behind the vessel which, like the lower installed power, reduces environmental impacts.

Austal’s trimaran hull form also forms the basis of the US Navy’s 127 metre Austal-designed and built Littoral Combat Ship LCS 2 “Independence”.