Two 47 metre high speed catamaran ferries departed Austal’s Henderson shipyard this week bound for Guadeloupe, where they will shortly commence operations for long-standing Austal customer L’Express des Iles.
Austal was selected by L’Express des Iles in June 2010 for the design and construction of the two vessels – one vehicle-passenger ferry and one passenger ferry, marking the company’s third contract with Austal since 1997.
The two new vessels will commence operations in October 2011 from Guadeloupe to the Caribbean islands of Marie-Galante, Les Saintes, Dominica and Martinique, where they will provide an important inter-island link for tourism and trade.
Austal Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Bellamy, commented that Austal was pleased to once again deliver a high quality, innovative product to a repeat customer.
“Maintaining and supporting existing customer relationships is a core focus of Austal,” ha said.
The vehicle-passenger ferry, “Perle Express”, has the capacity for 364 passengers spread over two decks, as well as room for 10 vehicles and extra cargo.
The passenger ferry, “Liberty”, has seating for the vessel’s 437 passengers spread over two decks and will serve as a functional yet comfortable low cost alternative for holiday-makers in the Caribbean.