Spanish Debut for Euroferrys Pacifica

Euroferrys Pacifica - the first of Austal’s Auto Express 101 ferries is set to debut in May 2001 for Spanish operator, Euroferrys, across the Strait of Gibraltar. The stylish 101 metre ferry has the distinction of not only being the largest of Austal’s flagship Auto Express car ferries yet to be built, but is also the largest high speed catamaran in the world with diesel propulsion.

With the capacity for 951 passengers and 251 cars (750 tonne deadweight), the new high speed aluminium ferry will operate on the 16 nautical mile route between Algeciras on the southern coast of Spain and Ceuta in Spanish Morocco, completing six return crossings per day.

Austal’s ability to customise to the owner’s requirements was a major reason for succeeding with this order. Specific to this, Austal was able to satisfy Euroferrys requirements for fast turnaround times and the ability to carry substantial commercial vehicle loads on the route, which at only 16 nautical miles, is a high frequency route. The vessel also features a new Austal design innovation in the garage – a hoistable vehicle deck to facilitate a mix of vehicle and commercial / freight carriage.

Commenting on the “Euroferrys Pacifica”, Joaquin Gonzalez, President of Euroferrys said, “We are absolutely delighted with the vessel from inside and out. We can now offer our customers the best in comfort and convenience. This vessel has without a doubt, the best vehicle deck we have seen in the market and in such a competitive seaway, that is vital to our operation. It is very well designed. Vehicles drive through for easy loading and unloading. Caravans can park under the mezzanine decks and not take up valuable space in the freight lanes. This will have a significant effect on the smooth flow of our service.”

Trial Results
Fitted with 4 x Caterpillar 3618 engines generating 28,800 kW and the Seastate T Max high speed steering system, “Euroferrys Pacifica” comfortably achieved 37 knots with 500 t dwt at 90% MCR.

The vessel also features Seastate’s aft active interceptors. Given the short and relatively sheltered crossing, the motion control system’s forward foils were not installed but the system is designed to easily enable the full installation.

Principal Data – Euroferrys Pacifica
Styling by Oliver Design

• Overall Length: 101.0 metres
• Beam: 26.65 metres
• Hull Draft: 4.2 metres
• Maximum Deadweight: 750 tonnes
• Maximum Axle Load: 15 tonnes
• Lane Metres: 1190
• Freight Lane Metres: 341
• Engines: 4 x Caterpillar 3618
• Speed: 37 knots