Kochi, 12th April 2018: Navgathi Marine Design & Constructions, a company based out of Kochi which is into design and construction of specialized watercraft has launched the 120 pax Air conditioned Tourist Ferry Boat for Kerala State Water Transport Department.
The boat is intended to operate between Vaikom and Ernakulam. Equipped with 2 numbers of 170 Hp marine grade engines the boat can travel at a speed of 12 knots (22 Kmph). This would be the first fast boat in SWTD fleet as all other boats normally operate at 7 knots (13 Kmph). For higher safety standards and reliability, the vessel is being built under Indian Register of Shipping rules for inland vessels and operating conditions of the Vaikom – Ernakulam route. The boat shall be registered under Kerala Ports.
It is a 24-meter catamaran vessel made of marine grade GRP shall have better stability against overloading, overcrowding and adverse weather conditions. A pleasurable boat journey shall be provided for the passengers with wide space in passageways and between the seats. To enhance the passenger comfort TV, Music system, Wifi etc shall be provided onboard the vessel. Interiors of the vessel shall be well designed to improve the pleasurable nature of the journey.
The boat has two classes of seating. Of the total seating capacity of 120 seats, 40 of them will be in air-conditioned space with reclining seats. Ergonomic cushion seats shall be provided in the economic class as well. The vessel will also have a small cafeteria for the executive crowd.
In the next one month, the interiors and outfitting works are expected to be completed and after test and trials the boat would be ready for service by end of May.