Australian shipbuilder INCAT Tasmania has launched a new ferry at its shipyard in Hobart, Australia destined for Trinidad and Tobago.
INCAT began construction on Buccoo Reef in 2019 and has since installed all major machinery and equipment onboard the vessel. The ship will be retrofitted with state of the art electronic systems, which are being commissioned and tested in preparation for sea trials in November.
The Buccoo Reef, which is named after Tobago’s largest and most popular coral reef, will have capacity for 1,000 passengers in three lounges, which will include a range of bars and food service areas. The vehicle deck will have 175 truck lane metres and capacity for 182 cars, or 239 cars if trucks are not carried.
This new addition will increase the existing seabridge’s capacity, creating greater access between the sister isles and boost local tourism. Citizens will be able to enjoy comfortable coach style travel.
The ship will have an operating speed of over 40 knots, which reduces the sailing time with an increased number of crossings per day. This will allow for same day travel, which will be a big benefit to our citizens improving inter-island access.
The new 100 meter high speed ferry is scheduled to be delivered later this year for service on the seabridge between Port of Spain, Trinidad and Scarborough, Tobago, in time for the peak holiday travel period.
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