Austal has announced that the first of two Auto Express 118 trimarans under construction for Fred. Olsen Express of the Canary Islands has successfully completed sea trials in Western Australia.
Capable of transporting 1,100 passengers and 276 cars at a cruising speed of over 37 knots, the new ferries for Fred. Olsen Express feature class-leading interior amenities and facilities, including multiple bars, kiosks, a retail shop and children’s play area.
The new vessels will operate on Fred. Olsen Express’ Santa Cruz, Teneriffe and Agaete, Gran Canaria routes in the Canary Islands from the 3rd quarter of 2020.
Austal CEO David Singleton said the ‘Bajamar Express’ (Austal Hull 394) has successfully completed sea trials off the coast of Perth, prior to the planned delivery of the vessel in June 2020.
“Austal’s proven trimaran hull design and integrated smart-ship technology, including MARINELINK-Smart and Motion Control System help deliver high speed performance and improved seakeeping, with greater passenger comfort,” Mr Singleton said.
“The new Bajamar Express builds upon the successful trimaran hull first developed by Austal for Fred. Olsen Express in the iconic Benchijigua Express, delivered in 2005.
“This next generation of high speed ferry is going to offer an even greater customer experience, for which Fred. Olsen Express has become renowned.”
Fred. Olsen S.A. CEO Andrés Marín said the sea trials were a resounding success.
“Achieving more than 42 knots speed, while maintaining the comfort of passengers on-board, clearly demonstrates the superiority of the Bajamar Express,” Mr Marin said.
“Further, the Bajamar Express and her sister ship, Bañaderos Express, will include all the latest preventive measures for COVID-19 safety, including protocols certified by Aenor.
“We are very proud that Fred. Olsen Express is the first Spanish transport and tourism company to achieve this important certification.”
“The entire Fred. Olsen Express team can’t wait for Bajamar Express to arrive in the Canary Islands and begin an enhanced service experience to our valued, loyal customers.”
