Austal and Fred. Olsen S.A. set new standards in two 118 metre high speed vehicle-passenger ferries
Austal and Canary Islands ferry company, Fred. Olsen S.A., are bringing together the best in commercial ferry interior design and premium customer experience for the new ‘Clase Oro’ VIP Lounge on board the new trimarans Bajamar Express and Bañaderos Express - currently under construction in Australia and the Philippines, the company said in its release.
The two 118 metre high speed vehicle-passenger ferries are due for delivery to Fred. Olsen S.A. by April 2020 and by the end of 2020 respectively, and will feature new standards in passenger comfort throughout the ship, especially in the VIP Lounge.
Based on the ships’ position (calculated by the GPS) and the timing of the voyage, the ‘human-centric’ lighting automatically adjusts to provide the optimum ambient lighting in the passenger lounges for the best possible customer experience.
Fred. Olsen Express Fleet Director Juan Ignacio Liaño has confirmed that ‘Clase Oro’ passengers will also benefit from priority boarding - and if travelling with a vehicle, priority departure from the ship.
The two new 118 metre trimarans, designed and constructed by Austal, will be the 4th and 5th high speed vehicle passenger ferries produced by Austal to join the Fred. Olsen S.A. fleet since 2003, and incorporate the very latest in exterior and interior design technology and innovation.
The new ships’ funnels and major pipework have been re-positioned and distributed to reduce noise not only in the Clase Oro lounge but throughout the vessels. A newly developed ceiling design and finish will also contribute to a more sound-proof passenger space that will be noticeably quieter, underway.
Benefiting from the successful, ongoing partnership in commercial vessel research and development between Austal and Fred. Olsen S.A., the new trimarans will also feature multiple bars and kiosks, a retail shop and a children’s play area that will further enhance passenger comfort, amenity and satisfaction.
With a capacity for more than 1,100 passengers (including 66 in the VIP Lounge) and 276 cars each, the Bajamar Express and Bañaderos Express will be very welcome additions to the Fred. Olsen S.A. fleet – and the Santa Cruz, Teneriffe and Agaete, Las Palmas routes in the Canary Islands.