Americas News
LNG-Powered, World's Fastest Ferry Ready to Go
A liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered ship being called the world's fastest ferry is ready to start operations, according to Wärtsilä Corporation, which provided the vessel's waterjets and propulsion control system.
The 99 meter catamaran, called Francisco, recently completed speed trials, where it achieved a lightship speed of 58.1 knots, and it is now set to begin transporting passengers and cars between Uruguay and Argentina.
The ferry, built by Australian shipyard Incat Tasmania Pty Ltd for Buquebus of South America, was originally named Lopez Mena but was renamed in honor of Pope Francis, the first Argentinean pope.
Wärtsilä said its LJX1720SR axial waterjets provide strong power while taking up little space, allowing them to be installed within the ferry's transom.
"Wärtsilä is recognised as a market leader in this field, and this valuable order has further strengthened our position in the high powered waterjet end of the range," said Arto Lehtinen, vice president for propulsion of Wärtsilä Ship Power.
"We are delighted to have continued our long standing co-operation with Incat in the completion of this vessel, which is truly a milestone delivery within the fast ferry sector."
The ferry will be able to carry 1,000 passengers and 150 cars and will have an operating speed of 50 knots.
Robert Clifford, chairman of Incat Crowther, which designed the ship, has said the vessel will operate on LNG for 95 to 98 percent of each voyage, and will use diesel while idling.
