Austal’s China JV delivers third ferry

Shipbuilder Austal’s Chinese joint venture shipyard has constructed and delivered its third Austal-designed high-speed catamaran passenger ferry.

The joint venture company, Aulong Shipbuilding has delivered the 42-metre aluminium ferry capable of carrying 272 passengers over two decks (pictured), to repeat customer Blue Sea Jet of China.

The ferry, christened the Hin Hai Chi , will operate in the Dawan district between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau.

Austal CEO David Singleton said the delivery of the thirds ship to the same customer showed Aulong’s position as a preferred shipbuilder by a leading Chinese ferry operator.

Singleton said: “Aulong has quickly developed a strong reputation for delivering China’s best high speed craft, drawing on Austal’s expertise in commercial ferry design and Jianglong’s local shipbuilding capability.”

Aulong was established in June 2016, and is 60 per cent owned by Jianglong Shipbuilding Company and 40 per cent owned by Austal.

The joint venture is pursuing commercial passenger and non-military vessel opportunities in China.

Austal has licensed a number of its proven aluminium vessel designs for marketing in China.

Picture: Austal/Hin Hai Chi

Subscribe to our free @AuManufacturing newsletter here.