Incat Crowther announced earlier today the launch of Xin Hai Bin, a 40m Catamaran Passenger Ferry built by AFAI for Zhuhai Fast Ferry Company. Incat Crowther’s relationship with AFAI dates back to 1982, when the yard built the first Incat Crowther ferries to enter service in China. In 2018, Xin Hai Bin is the 50th Incat Crowther-designed vessel for operation in China.
Xin Hai Bin is based on the proven unique Incat Crowther z-bow hull form used 2012’s Hai Ju and Hai Yao. The hull was lengthened and a new modernized superstructure was built upon this platform, with two passenger decks and a raised wheelhouse. The modular approach, collaboratively developed between yard and designer, gave AFAI a competitive advantage in both cost and delivery.
Passengers board via aft gates and enter the main deck cabin. This deck seats 190 economy class passengers, bathrooms, luggage racks, pantry, service counter and crew room.
Central stairs lead to the upper deck, with seats for 59 business class passengers and 12 VIPs, as well as a dedicated service counter.
Xin Hai Bin is powered by a pair of MTU 16V2000 M70 main engines, each delivering 1050kW and driving fixed-pitch propellers. The vessel’s Z-bow hull form exhibits excellent characteristics in rough water, whilst giving the vessel class-leading efficiency.
Xin Hai Bin is a sound demonstration of the strong relationship between Incat Crowther and AFAI, and the value such a relationship brings to the China market.
Source: Incat Crowther