By
Laura Hyde |
The second of seven next-generation Parramatta-class ferries designed by Incat Crowther has entered service in Sydney, Australia. The ferry, named John Nutt, will predominantly serve Transport for NSW’s commuter route between Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park and Circular Quay.
Following a three-day voyage from Richardson Devine Marine’s shipyard in Tasmania, the ferry completed its maiden landing at the Man O’War steps of the Sydney Opera House in late June. Final checks were then carried out by operator Transdev before the ferry began passenger operations. The whole process, from delivery to operations, was completed in just two weeks.
The new ferry will operate a route between Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park and Circular Quay
The ferry, named in honour of Dr John Nutt who had a lead role in the construction of the Sydney Opera House, accommodates up to 200 passengers. It was constructed by Richardson Devine Marine using Incat Crowther’s Digital Shipbuilding service, which utilised augmented reality headset technology to enable efficient collaboration via a digital model of the ship, throughout the construction process.
“Incat Crowther has a proven track record of partnering with governments and mass transit operators around the world to deliver tailored passenger ferries, efficiently and at pace,” said Brett Crowther, CEO of Incat Crowther. “We are excited to see the second Parramatta-class ferry now servicing Sydney commuters and passengers so quickly.”
The first Parramatta-class ferry, named Frances Bodkin, entered service in Sydney in May 2024. Construction of a third ferry is nearing completion in Hobart, Tasmania. The ferries are expected to have a 25-30 year working life and can be converted to electric propulsion when the network infrastructure is available. All seven ferries are expected to enter service over the next 18 months.