Austal Philippines has successfully launched the 115m high speed vehicle-passenger ferry ‘Express 5’, for Molslinjen of Denmark, utilising a new vessel transportation system designed by Austal.
The Auto Express 115 catamaran ferry is the largest ferry (by volume) constructed by an Austal shipyard and was securely transported onto Austal Philippines’ floating dock by a new, rail-based system called ‘ANTS’, featuring self-drive trollies with variable geometry to suit any hull configuration.
Austal CEO Paddy Gregg said: “The launch of Express 5 is a genuine milestone on a number of levels, as the largest ferry ever constructed by an Austal shipyard; and the first to be launched using our proprietary new vessel transport system. The Austal Nautical Transportation System (ANTS) allows us to move any large vessel safely, securely, and efficiently – monohull, catamaran or trimaran – at a fraction of the cost of traditional mobile transporters. Congratulations to the Austal Philippines team, who have not only successfully constructed and launched Express 5 but designed and developed a new vessel transport system to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance operations, for the benefit of our customer. Our congratulations also to Molslinjen, whom I know are just as excited as us to see this impressive new ferry in the water, with sea trials commencing soon.”
Austal Philippines President Wayne Murray said: “I am so proud of the Austal Philippines team who have constructed this impressive new high-speed ferry – the largest ever built by any Austal shipyard – and developed an innovative new transportation system that improves shipbuilding operations and reduces costs.”
Express 5 has the capacity for 1,610 passengers, space for 450 cars (or 617 lane metres for trucks plus 257 cars) over two vehicle decks and an operating service speed of 37 knots. It is powered by an LNG-capable, medium-speed power plant that offers a powerful yet economic and environmentally friendly solution.
The 115m catamaran was designed by the same Austal Australia team that developed the original, signature raked-bow hull for Molslinjen’s Express 4 (delivered in 2019); and includes Austal’s proprietary Motion Control and Marinelink-Smart systems.
Following final fit-out of the vessel alongside at Austal Philippines, Express 5 is scheduled for delivery early in the first quarter of 2023.
