Redefining Marine Infrastructure with Technological Trailblazers
A collaborative venture between Penguin Shipyard International and Incat Crowther is taking shape, marking a promising new era in marine transport for the Abu Dhabi Ports Group. The partnership has sparked the design and imminent delivery of two state-of-the-art 56-meter ro-pax catamaran passenger and vehicle ferries. Constructed by Indonesia’s Penguin International, these vessels are engineered to accommodate up to 194 passengers and 25 vehicles, offering a remarkable upgrade to the Group’s sea fleet.
These modern creations are destined to replace two aging vessels, consequently enhancing the service to Delma Island from Jebel Dhanna on the UAE mainland—a 42-kilometer chasm between the vibrant cityscape and the serene island.
Superior Speed and Design for Optimal Performance
Equipped with powerhouse engines from MTU and fitted with Kamewa 71 S-4 waterjets, these new sea chariots are set to conquer the Emirati waters at a stunning service speed of 35 knots. The vessels are specially fashioned, keeping local environmental conditions in mind, ensuring top-notch performance and passenger comfort.
Enhancing Passenger Experience
Each of the air-conditioned passenger decks has undergone meticulous design to ensure comfortable and spacious seating, with accommodations for eight wheelchair-bound passengers. To truly capture the breathtaking beauty of the Emirati coast, two expansive viewing areas have been strategically positioned at the bow and stern.
Catering to luxury as well as utility, the passenger deck encapsulates a VIP room capable of seating eight high-profile passengers, two inviting cafés, five well-equipped bathrooms, a children’s playroom, and an abundance of luggage and cargo spaces distributed evenly across the passenger and vehicle decks.
Efficient Operation with the Vehicle Deck Design
Focusing on operational efficiency, the design of the vehicle deck promotes swift roll-on and roll-off operations. To ensure unobstructed navigation, an elevated wheelhouse has been incorporated, offering the skipper exceptional lines of sight. The bridge deck accommodates a crew mess and a restroom for each of the vessel’s 10 crew members – a testament to the thoughtful design process.
Anticipating the Future
The technologically advanced vessels are currently in their construction phase at Penguin’s Batam shipyard. Sea trials are expected to commence in the coming year, bringing new hope for the future of marine transit and setting new benchmarks in passenger and freight transportation.
