Austal Philippines announced it has successfully launched the 115-meter, high-speed vehicle-passenger ferry Express 5, the largest ferry constructed by an Austal shipyard.

In its website, Austal said that the vessel is for Molslinjen of Denmark, which is utilizing a new vessel transportation system designed by Austal. Austal operates a state-of-art shipyard in Balamban, Cebu, south of Manila.

The high-speed catamaran ferry is the largest ferry (by volume) constructed by an Austal shipyard and was securely transported onto Austal Philippines’ floating dock by a new, rail-based system called “ANTS”, featuring self-drive trollies with variable geometry to suit any hull configuration, Austal said.

Austal Limited Chief Executive Officer Paddy Gregg said the successful launch of the company’s largest commercial ferry build, utilizing Austal’s new “ANTS” vessel transportation system, demonstrated both capability and innovation.

“The launch of Express 5 is a genuine milestone on a number of levels, as the largest ferry ever constructed by an Austal shipyard; and the first to be launched using our proprietary new vessel transport system,” Gregg said.

“The Austal Nautical Transportation System (ANTS) allows us to move any large vessel safely, securely, and efficiently – monohull, catamaran or trimaran - at a fraction of the cost of traditional mobile transporters.”

Gregg also extended his congratulations to the Austal Philippines, who have not only successfully constructed and launched Express 5 but designed and developed a new vessel transport system to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance operations, for the benefit of our customer.

Gregg said the new ferry for Molslinjen will start sea trials commencing soon.

Austal Philippines President Wayne Murray said the launch of Express 5 demonstrated the ingenuity and dedication of the local team – and the shipyard’s capability to deliver large, world class ships, cost effectively.

“I am so proud of the Austal Philippines team who have constructed this impressive new high-speed ferry - the largest ever built by any Austal shipyard – and developed an innovative new transportation system that improves shipbuilding operations and reduces costs,” Murray said.

Express 5 has the capacity for 1,610 passengers, space for 450 cars (or 617 lane meters for trucks plus 257 cars) over 2 vehicle decks and an operating service speed of 37 knots. It is powered by an LNG-capable, medium-speed power plant that offers a powerful yet economic and environmentally friendly solution.

On board, passengers will enjoy leather appointed reclining seats with USB ports, Wi-Fi, a full bistro and bar(s), a children’s play area and multiple audio-visual screens.

The sleek looking 115-metre catamaran was designed by the same Austal Australia team who developed the original, signature raked-bow hull for Molslinjen’s Express 4 (delivered in 2019); and includes Austal’s proprietary Motion Control and MARINELINK-Smart systems that help deliver a smoother journey for passengers and crew and a more efficient, better performing, smart ship for operators.