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Wight Shipyard Delivers Four Tourism Boats For Malta
Brad Marsden
Director - Marine Air Flow International
35 Years Experience in the Marine Industry
Congratulations to Wight Shipyard on their delivery of four tourism vessels to Malta
Brad visited Wight Shipyard on Isle of Wight in the UK in 2017. Well known as a very professional outfit, Wight Shipyard have a few weeks ago delivered four tourism vessels to a Maltese tourism operator. 2 20 meter vessels and 2 33 meter vessels were delivered and will go into service as both harbour tour vessels and hop on - hop off tourist services along the east coast of Malta, going as far as Gozo in the north. Replacing older vessels these boats will mean considerable reduction in operating costs and fuel consumption for ownser Fortina Investments. Their hope is to reduce Malta's increasing traffic problems by using the centuries old trading routes that are available around Malta, and redirecting tourists and locals alike back to the waterways as transport.
Designed by One2Three Naval Architects, these boats have been built and delivered under the heavy COVID 19 restrictions which shows just how committed the staff and employees at Wight Shipyards have been. Having to cope with a new level of work safe practices Wight Shipyard should be commended by bringing these vessels in on time and on budget - no mean feat in this current market.
The 20M Boat
The layout of the twenty meter vessel allows for passengers to choose between the main and upper deck ensuring the possible 197 passengers are well spread across the vessel with easy loading and unloading. With one of the primary focus being on operational sustainability, between the designers and the manufacturing process these vessels are substantially lighter and more economical than the ferries they are replacing.
Designed for operating in and around the ports of Valetta and the three cities, the features of the 20 m are:
- Speeds of 8-10 knots at maximum efficiency
- Top speed of 20 knots
- Powder train consists of two MAN 270kw engines (540 Kw total)
- ZF500 transmissions with twin 5 bladed CJR fixed pitched propellers (dynamically balanced)
- Carrying capacity of 197 pax with 3 crew.
The 33M Boat
Replacing some older vessels, the two new 33 meter boats will operate between Malta, Gozo and Comino offering a hop-on-hop-off service to tourist and locals alike.
These vessels have a different layout which features an enclosed air conditioned main cabin level complete with a kiosk/cafe at the aft end of the cabin. The upper deck will remain open but with forward and side protection ensuring the commuters and tourist remain dry and warm.
A large overhanging roof line means that passengers can appreciate Malta's amazing summer weather while staying out of the direct sun.
These 33 meter vessels feature:
- Two MAN D2862 LE466 marine diesel engines rated at 2 x 749kw
- Two ZF3050 marine transmissions and two CJR 5 fixed propellers.
- Cruising comfort at 20 knots and under
- A maximum speed of 30 knots
- Capable of carrying 298 passengers and 4 crew.
Malta is at the centre of the Mediterannean and consequently has been influenced over the centuries by many settlers and invaders. Sicilians, Romans, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Byzantines and even Spanish have governed Malta. Today Malta is a stunning collection of incredible ports, cities and architecture which ranks second only to some of it's marine beauty. If you've not been to Malta, its a must do on any European tour, not forgetting of course to catch the new ferries!
Marine Air Flow would love to take this opportunity to congratulate Wight Shipyard on a fantastic result during these difficult times.
If you haven't been to Malta it is really worth a visit. The history of this small but mighty country is incredible and gives Malta some incredible buildings and architecture. The location in the south Mediterean Sea sets it apart as a fantastic summer holiday location. Jen has more on Malta on her personal travel website.
