Cruise and Ferry Review - Summer/Spring 2020

7 2 SHIP OF THE YEAR AWARDS Express 4 Rikulau Molslinjen’s latest ferry was built by Australian shipbuilder Austal and, at 109 metres long, is the largest vessel the shipyard has built in a decade. Express 4 is a high-speed catamaran with capacity for over 1,000 passengers and 425 cars, or 610 lane metres for trucks and 232 cars. The vessel can reach speeds of over 40 knots and started showcasing her prowess in March 2019 on routes in Denmark. Onboard, passengers can enjoy hot food at Provianten and in the restaurant and lounge, as well as luxury coffee at Barista’s Coffee Shop. There are also entertainment options for children, such as a playroom, cinema and nursery. Other onboard amenities include free wi-fi, a microwave and pet- friendly areas. Designed by Austal Australia and constructed by Austal Philippines, Brave Line’s Rikulau is based on new catamaran hull form from Austal called Passenger Express 50. At 50 metres long, the high-speed ferry can carry 552 passengers at 39 knots. The ship entered service in Taiwan in March 2019 and, according to Brave Line, has halved journey times. Her hull was designed to lower water resistance, improve fuel efficiency and increase passenger comfort. Rikulau also features Austal’s Motion Control System to enhance her sea- keeping capability and reduce motion to deliver a more stable ride for passengers and crew. SHORTLISTED SHIPS: High-Speed Ferry Express4 HIGH-SPEED FERRY SHORTLISTED Rikulau HIGH-SPEED FERRY SHORTLISTED VenusClipper HIGH-SPEED FERRY SHORTLISTED VolcándeTagoro HIGH-SPEED FERRY SHORTLISTED Express4 HIGH-SPEED FERRY SHORTLISTED Rikulau HIGH-SPEED FERRY SHORTLISTED VenusClipper HIGH-SPEED FERRY SHORTLISTED VolcándeTagoro HIGH-SPEED FERRY SHORTLISTED