Louisiana-based shipbuilder Metal Shark has partnered with design firm Incat Crowther to develop an entirely new line of passenger vessels.
At Passenger Vessel Association (PVA) Maritrends Conference in Savannah, Georgia in early February 2018, Metal Shark introduced its new Endurance PV-X passenger vessel lineup, with 26m (150-passenger) and 32m (350-passenger) models now available and additional offerings to follow.
The welded-aluminum, high-speed, low-wake, catamaran Endurance PV-X models are touted by Metal Shark as “next-generation passenger vessels” and feature thoroughly proven Incat Crowther hull designs well-regarded among passenger vessel operators for their efficiency and performance.
The new models have been optimised for comfort, safety, and operational efficiency, offering a range of configurations and optional features designed to suit individual operator requirements.
The Endurance PV-X vessels stand out with chiseled, modern lines derived from Metal Shark’s latest military patrol boat designs. Large windows create a sense of openness while enhancing the view from within.
Comfortable seating arrangements, wide aisles, and roomy head compartments combine to enhance the overall passenger experience. Amenities such as LED infotainment screens, charging stations for electronic devices, onboard wifi, and bicycle racks are all available.
Initially shown in a conventional forward-facing passenger ferry layout, alternate arrangements have been designed for whale watch or dinner boat operators, with convertible seating available in select arrangements for maximum versatility.
In addition to a design that enhances comfort, efficiency, performance, and safety, one of the Endurance PV-X’s most important benefits to customers is availability.
Metal Shark showcased its ability to quickly and efficiently produce passenger vessels in 2017, delivering a total of eight 150-passenger vessels on or ahead of schedule. The new Endurance PV-X models are intended to allow the company to deliver passenger vessels even faster than before.