All-Aluminum Catamaran Delivered by Kvichak

Pacific Whale Foundation (PWF), in Kihei, Hawaii, took delivery of a 54 ft. all-aluminum catamaran built by Kvichak Marine Industries. Ocean Explorer, measuring 54 x 14 ft., is rated for 49 passengers and will operate for PWF's Eco-Adventure cruises, which include snorkeling, dolphin watching and whale watching tours. The vessel includes such features as skewed propellers, a sound-deadening hull and a high-tech muffler system to reduce the amount of underwater noise generated by the boat. Twin Cummins 6CTA diesel engines power Ocean Explorer. Each engine is rated for 430 bhp @ 2,600 rpm and drive Teignbridge 28 in. diameter four-blade propellers through ZF IRM 305A down-angle marine gears. Additional vessel features include a cruising speed of 23 knots, 400 gallon fuel capacity, Hynautic steering, 12VDC electrical power, two Raritan Crown marine heads and two 100 gallon freshwater tanks.