By Mark Edward Nero
Vallejo, California-based Moose Boats, a subsidiary of Lind Marine, said March 11 that it has been awarded a contract for the construction of a series of 75-foot semi-displacement US Coast Guard Subchapter-T passenger aluminum catamaran crewboats for Westar Marine Services in San Francisco.
Production of the first vessel is expected to begin this spring.
According to Northern California-based Lind Marine, the vessels’ propulsion will be provided by twin Volvo D13 turbo diesel engines with Volvo IPS3 drives, giving a service speed of 25 knots and exceptional close quarters maneuverability.
Also, engine, steering and joystick maneuvering controls in both the raised pilothouse and the upper level aft steering station are designed to provide captains with optimal visibility for bow and stern operations.
The vessels will be capable of carrying 28 passengers and 20,000 pounds of cargo to and from anchorages and piers within San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay and the Sacramento River Delta as well as offshore.
Westar Marine Services, a women-owned and operated company, has been headquartered in San Francisco since 1976 with a Seattle operation for the past five years. The company’s offerings include marine construction support, tank barge assist and escort, specialty barge services, ship stores deliveries and water taxi services.
Westar has said the new vessels will allow it to expand its cargo and passenger carrying capabilities.
Moose Boats designed the cabin superstructure and general arrangement of the vessels in-house with collaborative input from Westar.
Lafayette, Louisiana-based Incat Crowther is providing naval architecture services for the final design.
