SJSB Launches Caribbean Landing Craft
Florida based shipbuilder St. Johns Ship Building (SJSB) launched a newly built 190-foot landing craft vessel for owner Bahamas Ferries on July 28.
Designed for transport in the Bahamian islands, the vessel the Grand Master II is outfitted for Caribbean transport with a forward, hydraulic bow ramp and 6,400 square feet of cargo space.
Twin 700 HP Cummings QSK19 with Schottel rudder propellers power the Grand Master II. The vessel will also include a 22 inch electric Westmar bow thruster and two 99 KW John Deer generators.
A raised two-story deckhouse on the aft of the vessel allows for unimpeded cargo room from the bow to stern. The first tier of the deckhouse supports the crew quarters, galley, and passenger lounge. The second tier contains the pilothouse and captain’s quarters.
St Johns Ship Building said the Grand Master II is the first of three landing crafts it plans on delivering to Caribbean transportation groups in the near future.
Other projects nearing conclusion at SJSB include the series of eight 100’ Tugs for Vane Brothers, a 130’ barge, a house barge and another 190’ landing craft.