Austal-built second trimaran for cruise liner completes sea trials

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After its launch in April, Bañaderos Express (Austal Hull 395) completed sea trials off the coast of Balamban, Cebu, prior to its planned delivery in September 2021. Photo from Austal Philippines.
  • Sea trials for the second trimaran constructed by Austal Philippines for Fred. Olsen Express were completed off the coast of Balamban, Cebu
  • Delivery of the Bañaderos Express is expected in September 2021
  • The 118-meter vessel achieved a speed of 37.5 knots during multiple trials

The second of two Auto Express 118 trimarans constructed by Austal Philippines for Fred. Olsen Express of the Canary Islands has completed sea trials in Cebu.

After its launch in April, Bañaderos Express (Austal Hull 395) completed sea trials off the coast of Balamban, Cebu, prior to its planned delivery in September 2021, Austal Philippines said in a media statement.

Bañaderos Express achieved a speed of 37.5 knots during multiple trials.

“Austal’s proven trimaran hull design and integrated smart-ship technology, including MARINELINK-Smart and Motion Control System, help deliver high speed performance and improved seakeeping, with greater passenger comfort,” Austal Limited Chief Executive Officer Paddy Gregg said.

The new Bañaderos Express is the sister ship to the Bajamar Express, constructed in Australia and delivered in 2020.

Fred. Olsen Express recently celebrated the first year anniversary of Bajamar Express’ operations which included 2,000 trips, transporting 307,000 passengers, 129,000 vehicles and 222,000 line meters of cargo vehicles, delivered on schedule on 97% of journeys.

“We are absolutely confident that Bañaderos Express’ will make a big difference to the connectivity between Gran Canaria and Tenerife Islands; providing residents and tourists with an all-trimaran service, proven to be the most comfortable way to travel by sea. The much anticipated arrival of Bañaderos Express will, in fact, position the Canary Islands at the forefront of maritime connectivity, with the largest fleet of trimaran ferries worldwide,” Fred. Olsen S.A. Chief Executive Officer Andrés Marín said.

Bajamar Express has been named as a “Significant Ship of 2020” by the Royal Institute of Naval Architects in the UK.

Capable of transporting 1,100 passengers and 276 cars at a cruising speed of over 37 knots, the new ferries feature class-leading interior amenities and facilities, including multiple bars, kiosks, a retail shop and children’s play area and will operate on Fred. Olsen Express’ Santa Cruz, Tenerife, and Agaete, Gran Canaria, routes in the Canary Islands in the fourth quarter of 2021.