Austal announced that the second of two Austal Auto Express 118 trimarans constructed for Fred. Olsen Express of the Canary Islands has completed a rigorous program of sea trials off the coast of Balamban, Cebu, prior to the planned delivery of the vessel in September 2021.
Bañaderos Express (Austal Hull 395) – which launched in April – is a 118-metre aluminium trimaran, capable of transporting more than 1,100 passengers and 276 cars at cruising speeds up to 38 knots.
Along with her sister ship, Bajamar Express, the vessel features an optimised trimaran hull form and Austal’s industry-leading MARINELINK monitoring and control system.
Austal CEO Paddy Gregg said the successful sea trails demonstrated the vessels’ unique capabilities and exceptional seakeeping characteristics.
“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 Gregg said.
“The new Bañaderos Express is the sister ship to the Bajamar Express, constructed in Australia and delivered in 2020.
“Fred. Olsen Express recently celebrated the first year anniversary of Bajamar Express’ operations which included an impressive 2,000 trips, transporting 307,000 passengers, 129,000 vehicles and 222,000 line metres of cargo vehicles, delivered on schedule on 97% of journeys.
“The 9/10 customer satisfaction rating achieved for Bajamar Express bodes very well for the new Bañaderos Express and further highlights the effectiveness of the trimaran hull form, Austal’s design and construction capabilities, and of course Fred. Olsen Express’ impeccable service standards,” he concluded.
