Nichols To Build Advanced Technology 'Wave Piercer' For Fast Passenger Service

Nichols Bros. Boat Builders, Inc. of Whidbey' Island, Wash., recently announced that a $4- million waterjet-powered "wave piercer"—an advanced technology vessel described as a cross between a catamaran and a hydrofoil—will be in service between San Diego and Catalina Island beginning next spring.

The "Wave Piercer' will be the 10th vessel designed by International Catamaran, Ltd., Australia, to be built under license in Nichols Brothers Boat Builders, yard. The 121.5-foot vessel will have a top speed of 32 knots with 300 passengers aboard.

Unlike a traditional catamaran, in which passenger cabins are mounted directly to two hulls, the Wave Piercer suspends the superstructure on angled struts attached to widely spaced, long, narrow hulls that "slip" rather than pound through waves. Each hull contains a high-speed diesel, generator, and fuel tank.

The new vessel will be powered by a pair of Deutz TBD604V-16 MMM diesel engines developing 2,340 hp at 1,800 rpm and driving Ka- MeWa Model 63 S-62/60 waterjets.

For free literature giving full details on the facilities and capabilities of Nichols Bros. Boat Builders, Circle 54 on Reader Service Card

Maritime Reporter Magazine, page 90, Nov 1988

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Maritime Reporter

First published in 1881 Maritime Reporter is the world's largest audited circulation publication serving the global maritime industry.