Record Breaking Adriatic Season for Austal Auto Express

The introduction of the 82 metre Austal Auto Express catamaran "Felix" to a fast ferry service across the Adriatic Sea has been accompanied by a massive increase in traffic for its operators, proving the long-term value of the Australian shipbuilder's vehicle-passenger ferries.

Linking the Italian port of Ancona with Split in Croatia, the 'Croazia Jet' service was previously serviced by a 74 metre Incat vessel. This has now been replaced by the Austal designed and built "Felix" which provides greater capacity and comfort.

Established in 2000, the 'Croazia Jet' service is jointly operated by the Italian ferry operator SNAV and Sea Containers' subsidiary company Hoverspeed. Sea Containers operates the world's largest fleet of fast vehicle-passenger ferries.

Earlier this month, Sea Containers announced that "Felix" carried nearly 59,000 passengers and 13,250 vehicles during the seasonal service. This is an increase of 52% on the previous year and establishes a new record for the operation, which runs from June to September.

Austal Ships Managing Director Mr Bob McKinnon said the performance of the six-year-old "Felix" proved that Austal vessels can operate successfully for many years.

"Even after many years of service, Austal ferries can operate as reliably and economically as they do in their first season," Mr McKinnon said. "This is because every vessel we build combines the latest technology with sound engineering and design practices and quality materials and workmanship to ensure a long operational life."

In addition, Austal Service can provide long-term product support to operators to further guarantee maximum vessel availability. Services available include ongoing assistance with vessel requirements; supply of parts and equipment; planned maintenance systems; repairs and maintenance; and International Safety Management (ISM) systems.

"The outstanding ongoing performance of Auto Express ferries over extended periods equates to excellent long-term value for money," Mr McKinnon explained.

The ongoing success of vehicle-passenger ferries built by Austal Ships is further demonstrated by the fact that every Auto Express catamaran is either currently operating or, like "Felix", temporarily laid up for the northern hemisphere winter as is common industry practice.

Delivered in November 1996, "Felix" (Austal hull number 52) has the capacity to carry 676 passengers and 156 cars (or 10 coaches and 54 cars) at a service speed of 40.5 knots. On-board facilities include a business class section with private bar, two passenger decks and large duty free shop.

Originally built for operation on an eight nautical mile route between Sweden and Denmark, "Felix" makes the 130 nautical mile crossing of the Adriatic in 4.5 hours, at a cruising speed of up to 36 knots.

Sea Containers has already confirmed that "Felix" will resume the Croazia Jet service next June, following the low season layup.

David Collins of Sea Containers passenger transport division said: "The success of the route has vindicated our investment in this service and ensures that the service has become a firm fixture in the Adriatic. The excellent passenger figures for 2002 ensure that the vessel will be back in service next year."

In current activities, Austal Ships is building its twenty-first Auto Express ferry, an 86 metre catamaran for US company Canadian American Transportation Systems, and two 69 metre cruise yachts.

Photograph courtesy of Sea Containers