TRICAT High Speed Ferry - Redesign for the U.S. Market

Ferries are making a comeback in the U.S. because they are a cost-effective alternative for traffic-weary commuters and travelers. The U.S. gave up most of its ferries by the 1960ʹs in favor of bridges and tunnels because we could afford them. Most of the rest of the world continued to operate and improve on the much lower cost ferry system. The U.S. marine industry was, therefore, not a major participant in the development of modern high speed ferries. Now, with the resurgence of ferries, especially high speed passenger ferries, many U.S. entrepreneurs are looking for proven foreign designs. This paper discusses some of the design issues including the IMO High Speed Craft Code, classification and problems encountered when the British-designed 318 passenger, 45 knot TRICAT ferry was Americanized for construction and operation in the U.S.