Fast ferry system

A SYSTEM developed by Austal Ships and the Australian Maritime Engineering Cooperative Research Centre reduces the motion of fast ferries operating in waves by up to 50 per cent.

Fast ferries operate on many passenger and vehicle routes around the world but their motion through waves can cause passenger discomfort, make the crews’ working conditions difficult and lead to unacceptable levels of wear and tear on the vessel.

The Ocean Leveller Ride Control System has been installed on 19 vessels ranging in length from 37 metres to 86 metres and operating on routes from Europe to Asia and the Carribean to the Pacific.

CRC executive director Colin Chipperfield said Australia had $350 million in export orders for ferries fitted with the Ocean Leveller as well as direct import replacement of nearly $20 million.

“The Ocean Leveller has given Austal Ships a competitive edge in the fast ferry ship building market and also increased its level of profitability,” Dr Chipperfield said.

The Federal Government has announced funding of $92 million to six CRCs including the Australian Maritime Engineering CRC over the next seven years.