Repeat order
The vessels are intended to operate from Guadeloupe to the Caribbean islands of Marie Galante, Dominique, Martinique and St Lucia, where they will provide an important inter-island link for tourism and trade.
The vehicle ferry will have the capacity for 364 passengers and 10 cars. The passenger ferry will have the capacity for 437 passengers. Both vessels will have a maximum speed of more than 32 knots and are designed to also carry cargo.
L’Express des Iles currently operates Austal-built ferries “Gold Express” and “Silver Express”, which were delivered in 2005.
Compared to the four-engine arrangements of L’Express des Iles’ previous deliveries, the new vessels will each be powered by two MTU 16V4000 M71 diesel engines driving Kamewa 71 SIII waterjets. This combines with Austal’s expertise in producing durable, lightweight and efficient structures to deliver economical operation with reduced environmental impact, while still providing commuters with short transit times, comfort and service reliability.
