Austal secures contract to construct state-of-the-art aluminium catamaran for Rottnest Fast Ferries

Austal Australasia is set to embark on an exciting maritime venture, having secured a prestigious contract to craft a cutting-edge 32-metre aluminium catamaran for Rottnest Fast Ferries, headquartered in Hillarys, Western Australia. As the company's official announcement revealed, this groundbreaking project is a collaborative effort with the renowned vessel designer Incat Crowther.

The construction of this state-of-the-art aluminium catamaran is scheduled to kick off in the first quarter of CY2024 at Austal's Philippines shipyard. Paddy Gregg, the Chief Executive Officer of Austal Limited, expressed enthusiasm about this venture, highlighting the enduring and fruitful partnership between Austal and Incat Crowther. This collaboration has spanned multiple vessels and several decades.

The 32-meter aluminium catamaran is designed to accommodate up to 400 passengers and five crew members across three decks. It boasts extensive cargo space, specifically designed for securely storing passengers' bicycles and baggage on two separate decks. Propelled by 2 x 1029kW MAN D2862 diesel engines, which drive fixed pitch propellers, the vessel is anticipated to operate up to 25 knots during its 45-minute journey from Hillarys Boat Harbour to Rottnest Island.