Austal Vietnam delivers its first all-aluminium high-speed catamaran to Trinidad and Tobago’s NIDCO

On 6^th November’20, Shipbuilding group Austal announced that its Vietnam yard which began its operation in 2018 has delivered its first and foremost vessel fully constructed at the Vung Tau shipyard.

APT James, the 94m all-aluminium high-speed catamaran was delivered to National Infrastructure Development Company (NIDCO) of Trinidad and Tobago by Austal Vietnam unit.

The vehicle-passenger ferry, called Auto Express 94, was designed at Austal Australia. It features the company’s signature optimised hull design, raked bow.

A.P.T James is named after the Tobago-born politician, best known as an advocate for political, social and economic development in Tobago before and during his service on the Legislative Council of Trinidad and Tobago from 1946 to 1961.

The aluminium makes catamaran will provide maritime transport services on the ‘sea bridge’ route between the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.

David Singleton, CEO,  Austal, said: “This is an outstanding achievement for both Austal Vietnam and the Austal Group as we continue to focus and consolidate our defence and commercial vessel capabilities in strategic locations throughout Australasia.”

“Austal Vietnam is now clearly a valuable asset in our commercial vessel shipbuilding network, building upon and complementing the growing capability in the Philippines while also freeing up capacity in our Australian shipyard for additional defence contracts for the Royal Australian Navy and export markets.”

The all-aluminium high-speed catamaran has capacity for 926 passengers and 250 cars and is capable of speeds up to 37.5 knots. The ship features the latest in Austal’s ‘smart ship’ technology, including an advanced motion control system, to deliver a more comfortable and stable ride for passengers and crew.