Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2020

8 8 INTERV IEW New sisters for the Wadden Sea Rederij Doeksen’s new LNG catamaran entered service in July. Jon Ingleton asks Paul Melles about the company’s latest asset N etherlands-based operator Rederij Doeksen’s new 70-metre-long catamaran Willem Barentsz entered service in July 2020 and will be followed later this year by sister ship Willem de Vlamingh. Both vessels will operate across the Wadden Sea serving the islands of Vlieland and Terschelling from Harlingen. The pair of all-aluminium vessels have an operating speed of 14 knots and are certified to carry 66 cars and 700 passengers. From an operational perspective, the introduction of Willem Barentsz and Willem de Vlamingh will transform the return on the route. “We are responding to the demand for more ro-pax transport capacity to these popular domestic holiday destinations,” explains Paul Melles, managing director of Rederij Doeksen. “Our routes to the Frisian Islands of Vlieland and Terschelling are relatively long. However, because we are going to replace one older ro-pax with these two new vessels, we can offer more sailings on peak days next year with departure times better suited to our customers.” The ferries feature thoughtful interiors created by Dutch yacht design studio, Vripack. “The interior design contributes a unique world heritage experience for our passengers,” says Melles. “The contemporary design with lots of space, meandering lines and large windows all around enhances the experience of the beautiful sailing area. The many facilities, beautiful details, and comfort of the interior will contribute to a positive experience of our guests.” Built in Vietnam, the ferries also boast impressive technical specifications. “They are the first 100 per cent single-fuel LNG ferries with brand new MTU gas engines “They are the first 100 per cent single-fuel LNG ferries” Willem Barentsz and Willem de Vlamingh will operate between Harlingen and the islands of Vlieland and Terschelling in the Wadden Sea Photo: Joachim de Ruijter