Mitsubishi to build two new LNG-fuelled ferries

According to the statement, these vessels will be built at the Shimonoseki Shipyard & Machinery Works, with successive completion and handover scheduled for the end of 2022 to early 2023. The ferries will be operated by Ferry Sunflower Ltd (based in Oita) on its Osaka-Beppu route.

Each vessel will measure approximately 199.9 m long and 28 m wide, with gross tonnage of approximately 17 300 t. In addition to this, they will each have maximum prescribed capacity for 763 passengers, and carrying capacity for approximately 136 trucks (each truck measuring 13 m in length) and 100 passenger cars. Mitsubishi claims the main power plant will be a high-performance dual-fuel engine, capable of operating on both LNG and A-type heavy oil – a first for a Japanese ferry.

According to the statement, carrying capacity for trucks has also been significantly increased compared to existing vessels, with an expanded driver's lounge and more area per passenger. The vessels will meet the need for a modal shift in transportation and represent an evolution in casual cruising, with relaxed and open public spaces including an expanded bath and restaurant, and an atrium extending through three floors.

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/liquid-natural-gas/03012020/mitsubishi-to-build-two-new-lng-fuelled-ferries/