Hampton RoadsTransit сhristens BMT-designed ferry
Designed by BMT and constructed by Armstrong Marine in North Carolina, the vessel is the first of three to be delivered to the agency as part of a $7M program to replace the fleet’s aging vessels, the newest of which was delivered in 1990 and the oldest of which has been in service since 1982.
HRT 3The timing is good for HRT, which just celebrated the 15-millionth passenger on its ferry service.
HRT 4The 149-passenger, 78-foot, aluminum ferry is powered by twin Volvo D13-400 Tier III-compliant engines, spinning 36-inch propellers via Twin Disc reduction gears. Key improvements over the existing Elizabeth River ferries include electronic controls and navigation, greater fuel efficiency, accessibility features, and a more efficient two-ramp configuration. In contrast with previous vessels that only had a single side ramp, the new configuration allows passengers to embark and disembark faster. The flat deck and door sill ramps also significantly improve access for those with disabilities.
HRT 2The vessel’s christening is also a key milestone for BMT. The Elizabeth River IV is the first in a series of U.S. passenger vessels due to be delivered in the next year, including new ferries for the Sayville Ferry Service, New Orleans Regional Transit Authority, and Entertainment Cruises.
