This new mini-ferry with a capacity for 250 passengers, designed for short-term routes, will join the shipping company in April 2024
The work to build Fred’s new mini-ferry The Olsen Express, which started in May, continues to run according to plan. The Rodman shipyard, in coordination with the shipping company’s technicians, is responsible for the project and production of this catamaran, which will have a capacity for 250 passengers and will be completed and operational in April next year.
One of the major milestones in construction was reached this week with the demolition of the ship’s second hull. This completes the first phase of the structural fabrication process, which concludes with the lamination of the tunnel, roofs, and bridge.
Currently, the two hulls of the Miniferri are already positioned, which means that work on the tunnel will start in the next few days, a necessary step before the installation of the engines and tanks can begin. As confirmed by the Galician shipyard, all processes are running properly and continue according to the planned production plan.
A mini ferry for April 2024
This is the shipping company’s new bet: a ship for the transport of passengers without a vehicle, which consolidates its model for shorter routes and focuses on excursion tourism. A service that the company already offers on two of its sea lines: the route that connects Playa Blanca (Lanzarote) to Corralejo (Fuerteventura) and the La Gomera coastal route that connects Valle Gran Rey, Playa Santiago, and San Sebastián.
Fred Olsen Express has invested 3.5 million euros in the construction of this Rodman R80 model miniferri, which will have indoor and outdoor decks and bar service. Likewise, it will have two Caterpillar C32 engines with a power of 1,081 kW and a maximum speed of 20 knots. In April 2024, this new ship will begin regular service, expanding the company’s fleet in the Canary Islands.
