Austal Leads Industry Growth with New Contract

Austal Ships is pleased to announced that the company has secured a contract to construct two 37 metre low wash River Catamarans for Portuguese ferry operator, Transtejo,

The announcement of the new export contract is a strong indication the international ferry market is picking up according to Austal Managing Director, Bob McKinnon.

“Today’s announcement follows closely on our recent contract signing with the US Marines Corps for the charter of a high speed Theatre Logistics Vessel,” Mr McKinnon said.

“The high speed ferry market is showing significant signs of improvement and enquiry levels have increased over the last few months.”

“We are particularly pleased with these two contracts as they herald the opening up of new markets,” Mr McKinnon said.

“The Transtejo contract is exciting as it offers potential to stimulate growth within the Portuguese market.”

“There is a massive commuter market spread along the River Tejo and Transtejo alone operates a fleet of about 50 vessels,” he said.

Austal has been working strategically for some time to capitalise on this enormous market potential. It is also the first sale to the region by the Australian high speed ferry industry.

The two River Cats will operate between the ports of Parque Das Nações and Barriero on the River Tejo in Lisbon.

The contract adds to the product diversity of the Austal Group with the development of the River Cat design – a new product line.

Designed for commuter comfort and fast turn around times, the 37 metre River Cats can carry 292 passengers with a maximum speed of 30 knots. The vessels will be constructed by Image Marine, a division of Austal Ships.