New ferry service operating between the BVI and the USVI

A new 149-passenger ferry designed by Incat Crowther has entered service and is being operated by Smith’s Ferry Services, Cruise & Ferry first reported.

The ferry is providing services on a tourist route between Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas and Road Town in the British Virgin Islands.

The 78-foot (24-meter) ferry, which was built by Australian shipyard Aluminum Marine in Brisbane, can travel at speeds of up to 28 knots and is powered by two diesel engines designed to provide dependable speed performance, reduce maintenance intervals and increase time between overhauls.

“We required a vessel that not only delivered a premium customer experience, but one that was also operationally efficient and tailored to the sea state conditions we experience on the Caribbean Sea,” said Rikky Baynes, operations manager at Smith’s Ferry Services. “Incat Crowther has delivered on this brief by designing a vessel that will provide a step change in comfort and operational reliability for people travelling between the US and British Virgin Islands.”

The main deck of the ferry accommodates 118 passengers with space for an additional 40 passengers on the outdoor upper deck, which has seating and protected storage boxes for luggage. The main deck also features a service kiosk, two bathrooms and luggage space, as well as an area for two wheelchairs.