1 1 1 Damen has delivered four Island Class ferries to Canadian operator BC Ferries, all of which will begin operating in 2022. The shipbuilder has previously delivered two ferries of the same type. Each of the vessels carries 47 vehicles and is double ended to facilitate easy loading and unloading. The ferries also feature wide vehicle lanes, dedicated pedestrian paths, and bicycle parking spaces. Passenger lounges and washrooms are situated on the main deck for easy access. The comfortable lounge areas provide a variety of seating choices and charging stations. A sundeck with seating, windbreaks, and an accessible washroom provide passengers with a comfortable space to sit outdoors. The Island Class are battery-equipped ferries designed for full electric operation. The vessels are fitted with hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure becomes available. From the exterior details to the engines, the design of the new vessels reduces underwater radiated noise, lowers emissions and improves the onboard customer experience. Australia-based global shipbuilder Austal is leading the way to ensure the fast ferry sector can decarbonise its operations without compromising on speed. The company’s growing range of VOLTA designs takes advantage of rapidly improving battery technology to provide operators of smaller passenger vessels with a zero-emission solution today. In addition, Austal uses its highly efficient, proven platforms to help operators of larger vehicle and passenger vessels that sail on longer routes to successfully navigate several pathways to a low-carbon future. Whether ferry operators need electric drive trains that are future-ready for conversion to hydrogen fuel cell power, or mechanical drive trains that are future-proof for alternative fuel blends, Austal has the solution. A bumper delivery Decarbonising without compromises CFR asks shipbuilders Austal and Damen to share how they are helping ferry operators to create cleaner and greener fleets around the world REPORT Building the fleet of the future
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