By
Rebecca Lambert |
Australian engineering design firm Incat Crowther has delivered Korora, the first of a two vessel repeat order following the operational success of Te Kotuku, delivered in 2014.
The 34-metre catamaran represents an ongoing collaboration between operator Fullers Group, builder Q-West and Incat Crowther.
Korora will operate in Auckland and adjacent coastal areas. Unlike its sister ship, it has a sundeck and is able to handle more passengers – 401 in total. It also has a large café, luggage racks and wide access doors.
The wheelhouse retains its asymmetric configuration, designed in consideration of the local operational requirements. The frequently used starboard wing control station is enclosed for protection from the elements, whilst the port side is dedicated to crew access via stairs to the foredeck, which houses palletised cargo and a deck crane.
Korora features larger engines, reflecting increased deadweight capacity and offering improved performance and engine longevity. The vessel is propelled with conventional fixed pitch propellers and demonstrated an average speed of 29 knots at 85% MCR with typical deadweight during sea trials.
Korora will be joined by another sister ship in 2017.