Pristine NZ Lake Awaits Incat Crowther Designed Ferry

Incat Crowther designed 'Spirit of Queenstown' a 26 m catamaran ferry built by Aluminium Marine in Queensland for Southern Discoveries of New Zealand’s South Island is currently being delivered for service on Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu.

Incat Crowther was awarded the design contract on the basis of its ability to work within the tight parameters of the New Zealand government environmental regulations, contributing innovative thinking to develop a versatile and capable vessel, with a focus on low capital and operational cost.

The vessel’s aesthetic was developed to integrate into Queenstown’s foreshore environment without compromising the vessel functionality or performance.

Spirit of Queenstown is an efficient vessel that balances low fuel burn and passenger comfort. Due to the remote nature of the operation, specific attention was given to the development of durable systems, with a robust structure, conservative engine ratings, and good machinery serviceability.

The vessel features 170 seats, 127 being inside the main deck passenger cabin. A kiosk provides concession service aft. The outboard seats are arranged in booths with tables. Large double doors provide access to the cabin from the aft boarding gates. The aft main deck features three toilets and overhead hangers for bicycles. The upper deck features wheelhouse and 43 exterior seats.

The new ferry is powered by a pair of Yanmar 6HYM-WET main engines, each rated at 478kW. Propulsion is via fixed pitch propellers. The vessel has a top speed in excess of 27 knots.