Korea Express Ferry orders new high speed Incat Crowther RoPax

Image: Incat Cowther

South Korean shipbuilder Kangnam Corporation has commissioned Incat Crowther to design a new 80-meter high-speed catamaran RoPax ferry ordered by Korea Express Ferry (KEF).

Incat Crowther, Kangnam and KEF, previously collaborated on the design and delivery of Korea Pride – a 72-meter passenger ferry that has been successfully operated by KEF from Incheon City since 2022. That vessel’s performance reinforced KEF’s decision to again utilize Incat Crowther’s operator-focused design approach.

The new vessel will service routes between Incheon Metropolitan City and the Yellow Sea islands of Daecheongdo, Baengnyeongdo and Socheongdo in Ongjin County, Republic of Korea (South Korea)

The operational success of Korea Pridel ed to KEF being selected to replace the aging Ro Pax service on those routes.

The new vessel will incorporate modern design optimizations and technological innovations to maximize operational efficiency while meeting growing local demand.

With a vehicle deck capable of transporting up to 60 cars or 50 utility trucks, the vessel will provide critical economic support to island residents and businesses.

Capable of transporting up to 572 passengers and 12 crew at speeds of up to 45 knots, the new vessel has been designed to optimize vehicle flow and passenger amenities. The vessel features twin pedestrian access ramps providing step-free access to the passenger deck, as well as a customized stern ramp for vehicle accessibility.

Building on the success of Korea Pride, the new vessel provides an enhanced passenger experience in four seating classes (economy, premium, business and first class) and dedicated facilities for parents, pets and wheelchair users. The large, air-conditioned passenger deck also features a kiosk and pantry, thoughtfully designed cargo and luggage holds, a medical room, ample bathroom facilities, a smoking room, and massage chairs for business and first-class passengers.

The vessel’s propulsion system provides greater redundancy, reliability and maneuverability while achieving higher power-to-weight ratios and lower fuel consumption. This configuration enhances operational safety and efficiency on the demanding coastal routes the vessel will be operating on. The vessel will also be equipped with an aft control station, providing the captain with optimal vision and safety during docking operations.

“This project is a great example of how Incat Crowther can utilize our global experience and capabilities to support the delivery of a bespoke, locally built passenger ferry,” said Dan Mace, technical manager at Incat Crowther. “The new vessel offers a reliable six engine drivetrain of MTU M05 rated engines, combined with an off-the-shelf configuration of waterjets and gearboxes for ease of installation and maintenance. Operational efficiency is enhanced with a wide turning circle for loading and unloading of cars. We are committed to supporting Kangnam to ensure this important sovereign build delivers for local communities.”

“The addition of this new vessel to our fleet represents a significant investment in connecting Ongjin County communities with Incheon City,” said Korean Express Ferry CEO Sung Man Hwang. “The enhanced vehicle capacity will provide crucial support for local businesses and residents, while the vessel will ensure reliable, comfortable service for years to come. We have great confidence in our partnership with Incat Crowther and Kangnam Corporation and look forward to seeing this vessel enter service on these crucial routes.”

Construction on the new vessel is to commence in second half of 2026, with the vessel to be delivered in 2028.

• Technical particulars HERE