New Cat Cocos expected today |17 May 2007

The new Cat Cocos, which arrives this evening on board a cargo ship from Brisbane, Australia, will be offloaded tomorrow morning.

The new 35-metre high speed catamaran, with the capacity of 350 passengers, is said to travel at the exhilarating speed of 35 knots, making for a record breaking inter-island crossing of only 45minutes.

No expense has been spared for the comfort and care of the passengers. The vessel is fitted with state-of-the-art Computer Ride Control which intuitively reduces or nullifies the risk of discomfort that may be caused by the motion of the sea.

Boasting three levels of travel class, the new Cat Cocos will complete three round trips per day carrying commuters and tourists.

The main deck features a two-class cabin arrangement with 178 seats in the main cabin and 44 seats in the first class cabin. Each cabin has direct access to a centrally located bar. Each cabin is also serviced by WCs in the aft quarters. Both cabins feature large windows, affording great visibility and adding to the spacious feel of the vessel.

On the upper deck there is an open area aft with seating for 124 passengers, the majority of these under cover. A small VIP cabin for 10 passengers is positioned behind the wheelhouse.

The vessel is powered by two MTU main engines, driving propellers through a ZF reduction gearbox.

The official inauguration ceremony will be held on May 21 and will be attended by government and local dignitaries.

The speeches will be followed by the traditional champagne inauguration and blessings, following which guests will be taken on a special sunset cruise to celebrate her maiden voyage.