New DHS Plum Island ferry has Wesmar bow thruster

Written by Nick Blenkey
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Crewboat style ferry has Wesmar dual prop bowthruster

JUNE 15, 2017 – Woodinville, WA, based Wesmar (Western Marine Electronics),reports that its 75 horsepower hydraulic stainless steel dual prop bow thruster has been installed on a 118′ x 27′ x 10′- 9″ aluminum ferry being built by Gulfstream Shipbuilding, Freeport, FL, for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for operation inNew York and Connecticut waters.

It will be capable of transporting passengers, freight and vehicles and will service the DHS Directorate of Science and Technology (S&T) Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC), Orient Point, NY.

The welded aluminum mono hull, diesel propelled, quad screw ferry has a 6′- 6″ draft and will rely on the powerful Wesmar dual prop bow thruster for maneuvering and docking.

Gulfstream Shipbuilding worked with naval architect C. Fly Marine Services, and Wesmar was represented in the contract by Birney Rouselle, Skipper Engineered Products LLC, Harahan, LA, a division of (Wesmar dealer) Donovan Marine.

James Murray, Sales Manager of Gulfstream Shipbuilding says its hull structure is robust and designed for strength with considerations for ice, but not overly heavy as to affect performance, maneuverability, seaworthiness, comfort and speed. The hull design provides for minimal frictional and wave-making resistance along with the center of gravity to meet the peak performance envelope and to ensure adequate speed and efficiency.

The as yet unnamed new ferry will carry up to 148 passengers and crew along with fire engines, support vehicles and freight on its rear cargo deck. It will be certified USCG Subchapter T, under 100 gt.

nter rotat

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