BMT Wins Design Contract for Four US Commuter Ferries
BMT Nigel Gee (BMT), a subsidiary of BMT Group, has announced its latest contract in partnership with sister company BMT Designers & Planners, for four 26.3m catamaran passenger ferries, destined for operation with Potomac Riverboat Company.
BMT has worked extensively with Potomac Riverboat Company to develop the concept for the new vessel and continues to support the project with production engineering to the selected builder. BMT Nigel Gee’s experience and proven designs in the fast, low wash ferry sector was a key factor in selection.
Kai Skvarla, President of BMT Designers & Planners comments: “These new routes have been added following a $2 billion development project to renovate a mile-long section of the Potomac River on Maine Avenue and reinforces the commitment to revitalize water transportation in U.S. cities. These vessels which will operate daily will have the capacity to carry up to 149 passengers and connect Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia.”
The vessels have been developed based on a proven BMT Nigel Gee hull form and will be powered by two x Scania Marine Di 13 (405 kW) continuous duty-rated EPA Tier III engines plus two x FP propellers, providing a service speed of 22 knots. The ultra-low wake design provides maximum comfort and low impact on this type of craft at relatively high speeds.
John Bonafoux continues: “The boats will be manufactured in the U.S, by Louisiana based shipyard Metal Shark. Their approach to managing contracts to tight timescales, as well as their commitment to high quality construction has really impressed us and it is great to be working with them again on this exciting new project.”
