Tasmanian shipbuilder Incat has won the contract to build six new ferries for use on Sydney Harbour.
NSW Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said the first ferry was expected to be in service by the end of 2016 with the remainder delivered progressively through 2017.
“These are the first new vessels in the Sydney Ferries fleet since 2001, and are a major step forward in the NSW Government’s plans to modernise and expand the ferry network,” Constance said.
“From the outside they will look similar to the very popular First Fleet vessels, but there will be improved customer features including more spacious outdoor viewing areas, 87 extra seats and an additional large, walk-around deck.”
The 35 m vessels will be able to carry up to 400 passengers each and will come with a number of additional passenger features including Wi-Fi access, real-time journey information, and charging stations for electronic devices.
They will service the inner harbour area from Watsons Bay in the east to Cockatoo Island in the west.
Incat’s history dates back to 1972. It has grown since then to be the world’s largest fast-ferry builder.
“This is a great opportunity for Incat’s highly skilled and experienced workforce to participate in the construction of ferries for the iconic Sydney fleet,” said Incat Tasmania managing director Simon Carter.
“An order such as this, where six identical vessels are to be built, is welcomed by the existing staff and provides an excellent opportunity for training new personnel.”