Hawaii Superferry Launched in Alabama Shipyard

Published Jan 25, 2007 12:01 AM by The Maritime Executive

The first of two planned Hawaii Superferries slid cleanly into the water from an Alabama shipyard drydock on Friday. Intended to link the Hawaiian Islands in a way never seen before, the two-year construction effort is on time and on budget, according to company officials. The sleek, 349-foot aluminum passenger-and-vehicle ferry is now 95% complete, with only interior finish work and sea trials remaining before the vessel’s scheduled March delivery.

Built by Austal USA, the new vessel combines unique architectural features and a non-toxic bottom paint design specifically intended for Hawaii's ocean conditions. Beyond this, the ferry’s environmentally friendly engineering systems will eliminate the possibility of discharge of any liquid or solid waste into local waters. Austal’s experience with this type of design is deep, their track-record enviable and they are the world’s largest builder of fast ferries. The first Hawaii Superferry promises to deliver leading-edge technology and designs not previously available in any U.S. market.

The launch of the islands' first interisland ocean-going service for residents and tourists is scheduled for July. The first ferry will link Honolulu with Maui and Kauai with a second vessel planned for 2009 to serve the Big Island. Designed to reach a speed of 35 knots between islands, the catamaran-style vessel is fitted to allow for the carriage of as many as 866 passengers and almost 300 passenger cars. The vessel’s payload can also be configured to carry up to 28 full-size trucks, giving new meaning to the popular maritime buzzword, “shortsea shipping.”

While the Superferry has been designed to be able to compete with any and all interisland transport modes, the concept clearly transcends what is currently available. The island’s first true alternative in interisland transport also promises to change the way of life for thousands of local residents, while providing local businesses with an efficient, fast and cost-effective transport vehicle.

Visit Hawaii Superferry: http://www.hawaiisuperferry.com/