Vessels will be delivered in early 2022 and will operate on routes between Greece's Saronic islands
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Greece-based operator Attica Group has ordered three new Aero catamaran passenger ferries from Norwegian shipbuilder Brødrene Aa.
To be built at a total cost of €21 million (US$25.2 million), the three new vessels will be designed to serve the route between the Saronic islands in Greece, which is operated by Attica Group’s Hellenic Seaways brand. All three vessels are expected to be delivered within the first four months of 2022.
Each of the 36-metre-long ferries will be able to accommodate 150 passengers and will have an “ultra-modern design” and various features to decrease fuel consumption and air emissions, including a lightweight carbon fibre superstructure and an “innovative hull form”. The vessels will also have an advanced ride control system to increase passenger comfort in rough seas, as well as solar panels to generate the energy required for all lighting and other hotel services in the accommodation areas.
Onboard highlights will include spacious passenger accommodation areas with large windows, facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, digital connectivity, overhead luggage bins, designated luggage areas, bicycle storage areas, and air-conditioned kennels for pets.
Attica Group expects that the three new Aero vessels will increase capacity and reduce the overall travel time on the Saronic island routes, while also contributing to the economic development of the local communities.
“The new aerodynamic Aero vessels represent the culmination of pioneer and innovative design in the high-speed vessels category, for which the Brødrene Aa shipyard is internationally renowned,” said Attica Group in a press release.
“With this investment, Attica Group carefully implements its business plan, in order to strengthen its market leading position in line with international requirements of the ferry industry. Moreover, in a period of intense financial difficulties due to the global pandemic, this investment strongly reaffirms Attica Group’s long-term commitment to sustainable development and to the continuous improvement of the services provided to the Greek islands, to their local communities and to the growth of the Greek economy.”