The UK based design and engineering consultancy, Houlder has won contract with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company (IoMSPC), acting as technical advisor in the design and build of its latest battery hybrid ferry, Houlder said in a statement.
The purpose-built ropax vessel will meet the challenging requirements of increased vessel capacity and comfort, as well as tolerating harsh Irish Sea conditions throughout the annual cycle of vessel operations.
“The vessel will be constructed by one of the world’s major shipbuilders, Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD), based in Ulsan, South Korea. It is due for delivery in Spring 2023 and will bring high levels of on-board facilities and an enhanced freight capability to the island. It is also intended to be more environmentally efficient and manoeuvrable in poor conditions,” Houlder said.
The project presents two key design challenges - providing a dependable lifeline to the Isle of Man throughout winter and ability of the vessel to consistently tolerate the harsh conditions of the Irish Sea in its route between Douglas and Heysham, Lancashire.
Houlder will guide the shipyard during the build of the vessel, ensuring it meets the design specification, as well as advising IoMSPC on technical and regulatory aspects, to ensure a high quality and timely delivery. “Houlder will use its experience of the local regulation, knowledge of the routes, and operational and technical expertise to ensure a smooth process from concept to delivery,” the company said.