Singapore’s Penguin Shipyard International has delivered three Flex Ferries to its owner Horizon Ferries, after successfully completing sea trials.
Designed by BMT Nigel Gee, the vessels are fully compliant, high-speed 2000 HSC Code monohull ferries.
The new-build ferries, Horizon 7, Horizon 8 and Horizon 9, are now operating between Singapore and the Indonesian island of Batam.
BMT Nigel Gee technical director Ed Dudson said: "The success of the Flex Ferry reinforces the strong on-going relationship between BMT Nigel Gee and Penguin.
"These three vessels demonstrate that the partnership between the two companies can provide high-quality vessels within an extremely short timescale."
The 38.5m-long and 8.7m-wide vessels will be able to accommodate 238 passengers, with 208 passengers in the main deck and 30 in the upper deck VIP saloon.
In addition, the vessel’s design offers wide luggage stowage on both levels, a spacious wheelhouse and a dedicated crew rest area.
The ferries are equipped with three Caterpillar C32 diesel engines driving fixed-pitch propellers.
With hydrodynamically efficient hull form, the propellers will allow the ferries to hit speeds of 28k at 90% maximum continuous rating (MCR).
The enhanced hull design of the vessel also offers low-resistance and better fuel efficiency.
Horizon has also ordered an additional Flex Ferry, which is expected to be delivered in the second half of 2015.
Image: The 38.5m-long and 8.7m-wide Horizon ferries will house 238 passengers. Photo: courtesy of BMT Group Ltd.
