Construction progresses on Sea SA ferry Aurora

Sea SA Spencer Gulf ferry takes shape

Dry Docks World, Batam, Indonesia, May 2010: Construction of Sea SA's much anticipated new ferry is progressing well, with the hull now 50% completed, latest reports confirm.

Sea SA Managing Director, Stephanie Dawson, said, the company remained optimistic that bookings for the Wallaroo to Lucky Bay car and passenger ferry service would re-open before the end of the year, in light of progress on the build and significant advances in moving terminal development plans forward.

"All hull, superstructure materials, machinery, piping and electrics have been ordered and we expect the hull to be completed by early August," Stephanie revealed. "The superstructure will be 40% complete by September with engines, shafts and propellers installed by late October early November and final fit-out now scheduled for late December."

"It's a big job and a tight time-frame, but we are doing everything in our power to remain on track to resume taking bookings before the year's end," Stephanie stated. "We are also pleased to announce that we have overcome many of the previous barriers to expanding our terminal facilities at Lucky Bay with the development application for Wallaroo still being considered, ensuring that our customers can look forward to world-class transit hubs to match our beautiful new ferry in the future."

The new vessel will carry 85 cars and 300 passengers across the Spencer Gulf, reducing drive-time between the Eyre and Yorke Peninsulas by two and a half hours. Designed to latest international regulations, Aurora will deliver greater cost-effectiveness than her predecessor, Sea Spirit 1, in meeting the needs of the increasing vehicle market.

New improved design features include a stabilizer system for a smoother ride and a forward visor to keep vehicle deck areas totally dry and protected from wind and salt spray. Onboard, the luxury ferry will boast air-conditioned cafe, comfortable lounge-style seating, widescreen movie lounge, toddlers' play enclosure, disabled access and wireless internet connectivity.

/ ENDS