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N 100 grow his company by 20%. Slated to launch in 2017 and for citywide using two almost completely interchangeable be fully operational by 2018, the service will connect 21 designs for maximum ? exibility as the system evolves. Ca- neighborhoods across ? ve boroughs via six routes to vari- pable of carrying at least 149 passengers, the cutting-edge ous points in the city, lifting some out of a “transit desert.” vessels will offer WIFI, and feature narrow, elongated hulls

For the price of a subway ride, the service will traverse some designed to reduce drag, limit wakes and maximize fuel 60 miles of waterway and carry 4.6 million passengers via economy. Moteurs Baudouin’s M26.3 engines will help re- 900,000 landings annually. The long-term goal is to tie duce noise and emissions, and offer interchangeable parts the ferry service into the larger transportation network of between engine models. The extent to which recycled ma- buses, trains and subway. terials are worked into the interior is also unique.

Citywide will “revolutionize” the way New Yorkers live, Hornblower will continue to navigate new opportunities work and play, says MacRae. The growing communities on by keeping its eyes on the prize: “While technology may be underused waterfronts are often far from transit connec- different tomorrow, and values will change over time, the tions. “It is so hard to get a bridge, tunnel or new subway core mission will stay the same whatever the price point or built, and the cost is outrageous. But it’s not hard to get a part of us that touches you – an amazing experience from boat built and manned with great mariners,” says MacRae. the customer perspective,” says Cameron Clark, Vice Presi-

Moreover, municipalities want a turnkey system run by dent & General Manager of Hornblower New York.

one operator, leaving them with a single number to budget for. “They want predictability, they want to lower their risk

Patricia Keefe is a veteran journalist, pro? les, and there aren’t many companies that can deliver editor and commentator who writes about this turnkey model,” he adds. technology, business and maritime topics.

Hornblower is building 18 handicap-accessible ferries 57 www.marinelink.com MN

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