Austal Leads the Way in Cruise Yacht Market

Leading operators realise niche potential for luxury cruises.

Whilst Austal’s reputation is built on the design and construction of large, high speed vehicle-passenger catamarans ferries it has also successfully built and delivered sixteen cruise vessels since 1989 for private and commercial owners.

Of these, three have been built to SOLAS requirements. Two 70 metre sister-ships, capable of accommodating 74 passengers each are in operation in Tahiti with the third, a catamaran, originally delivered to the Caribbean in 1999 capable of accommodating 80 passengers.

Recently purchased by Ustica Lines and renamed “Ammari” this first ever catamaran Cruise Yacht is soon to be seen operating in the waters off the beautiful island of Sicily. Better known as a leading Italian operator of fast ferries, Ustica Lines has expanded its marine tourism portfolio because it recognised the growing need for a unique cruise product.

The key feature of the Austal Cruise Yacht is the ability to provide guests with the onboard atmosphere and experience of a private luxury yacht. Limited guest numbers ensure a higher ratio of crew attention and the vessel size is such that remote and exotic anchorages can be accessed. Austal’s commercial focus and construction skill ensures ease of operation and maintenance with the reliability demanded by any business operation.

Ustica Lines President, Vittorio Morace commented, “Our aim is to provide our guests with a high standard of luxury while offering in exclusive surroundings, both on and off board, a range of activities that will suit individual needs and tastes. Guests will be offered the opportunity to stop-over at unusual places of interest and beauty, and will be served the finest dishes of Sicilian and international origin, freshly prepared each day by our expert chefs.”

In addition to passenger vessels, Austal has developed several new designs ranging from 70 to 106 metres to satisfy interest from the emerging charter yacht market. Identified by their SOLAS compliance for up to 36 guests these vessels are chartered on a weekly basis to discerning guests looking for the ultimate in privacy and luxury. Enjoying a one to one crew to guest ratio and the finest in onboard service these charter yachts are able to travel wherever and whenever the guests interest leads them.

With styling and onboard amenities more akin to a private super yacht these cruise yachts look at home in the luxury ports and coastlines of the Mediterranean or Caribbean.

In recent yard news Austal has delivered the 50 metre “True North” into the adventure tourism market. Capable of accommodating 36 passengers this vessel is now operating in the majestic Kimberly region of Western Australia. Also delivered in 2005 is a 36.5 metre private research vessel soon to be seen in Caribbean waters.

In June the yard announced the confirmation of two new orders in this category. At 37 and 58 metres the vessels will be delivered over a 19 month period for use as both private and charter vessels.

ENDS