- Strategic Marine secures inaugural contract with regional ferry operator Bintan Resort Ferries
- Three new 43m passenger fast ferries to renew and expand Bintan’s fleet
- Significant reduction of emissions per passenger mile
Strategic Marine has laid the keels for a series of three new 43m Passenger Fast Ferries for new client Bintan Resort Ferries at its Singapore yard.
The contract for these newbuild vessels establishes a new relationship between the provider of ferry services between Singapore and neighbouring Bintan Island with leading aluminium boat builder Strategic Marine to replace and expand its current fleet.
Bintan Resort Ferries currently operates three ferries, each with capacities of approximately 300 passengers. The new ferries, fully compliant with IMO High-Speed Craft (HSC) Code requirements, will accommodate up to 293 passengers, including 57 in the operator’s exclusive Emerald Class. With improved design and enhanced comfort, the vessels will allow Bintan Resort Ferries to better serve rising passenger demand while significantly improving the overall travel experience.
Emissions and fuel economy were key considerations for the design of the ferries with reductions of approximately 33% per passenger mile expected achieved through a combination of efficient design and propulsion equipment.
The ceremony, attended by top executives from both parties, signified the commencement of the vessels' construction and marked a key point in the project to renew Bintan Resort Ferries' fleet for the future.
The award of this contract highlights Strategic Marine’s commitment to delivering top-quality solutions to the maritime community and showcases the trust major operators have in its ability to deliver high-profile projects.
“We are honoured by the trust Bintan Resort Ferries has shown in our capabilities and thankful for the opportunity to support our Client’s fleet renewal and expansion plans and are confident that these new ferries will be setting new standards for passenger comfort and connectivity in the region”, said Mr Chan Eng Yew, Chief Executive Officer at Strategic Marine.
“Today is a significant milestone in BRF’s history. The keel laying, though symbolic, marks the physical commencement of construction for our new ferries; We will not just be building new ferries; we are elevating the travel experience and fostering greater confidence among our passengers.” said Sebastian Koh, General Manager of Bintan Resort Ferries.
Winning the contract to build these high-specification ferries shows Bintan Resort Ferrries' confidence in Strategic Marine’s expertise in designing and building vessels that meet the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
The new ferries will serve a key market shuttling passengers to and from Bintan with its many resorts and top attractions and will play an important role in transporting them safely and comfortably while providing a high degree of service along the way.
