Next Generation Trimaran Exceeds Expectations
Austal‘s next generation 102m trimaran has impressed during sea trials, achieving a speed of 39 knots at 90% MCR with 340 DWT. The high speed vehicle ferry – available for purchase – utilises Austal’s patented trimaran technology to deliver improved sea keeping, fuel efficiency, passenger comfort and payload capacity.
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 hullform also reduces waves created behind the vessel which, like the lower installed power, reduces environmental impacts.
Austal’s latest trimaran follows the landmark 2005 trimaran ferry Benchijigua Express, currently servicing Spain’s Canary Islands where the trimaran’s lower roll speed has significantly reduced passenger seasickness. Austal’s trimaran hullform also forms the basis of the US Navy’s 127 metre Austal-designed and built Littoral Combat Ship LCS 2 “Independence”. The state-of-the-art combat ship recently completed acceptance trials ahead of its delivery to the US Navy at the end of the year.