Top 10 Fastest Ferries In The World

Top 10 Fastest Ferries in the World

Today we will give you the list of the Top 10 Fastest Ferries in the World with Price, Images, and Details and you can Download this Page as a PDF in 1 click, just go to the end of this Page, So let’s Start.

In the realm of maritime transportation, speed becomes a defining factor, especially when it comes to ferries connecting islands and coastal cities. The evolution of ferry design has ushered in a new era of high-speed vessels, equipped with powerful engines and advanced technology. Let’s Start with a thrilling journey as we unveil the top 10 fastest ferries in the world, each setting sail with the promise of swift and efficient travel.

List of All Top 10 Fastest Ferries in the World

Ferries play a crucial role in connecting islands and coastal cities, facilitating swift transportation of passengers and vehicles. In the realm of these maritime marvels, a new generation of ships has emerged, equipped with powerful engines and expansive cargo capacities. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the top 10 fastest ferries worldwide, each boasting impressive speed and efficiency.

#1. Francisco Ferry: Setting Sail at 58 Knots (Guinness World Records With a top speed of 58.1 knots (67 mph; 107 km/h))

The Francisco, a remarkable 99-meter catamaran, has earned the title of the world’s fastest passenger ship, achieving an astounding speed of 58 knots (107 km/h; 67 mph). Powered by a combination of liquefied natural gas and two GE LM2500 gas turbines, along with two Wärtsilä water jets, the vessel stands as a testament to cutting-edge maritime engineering. Built by Incat in Hobart, Tasmania, the Francisco serves under the operation of Buquebus, an Argentine company specializing in ferry services from Buenos Aires. Christened by Francisco Papa in June 2013 in homage to Pope Francis, the ship excels in traversing the challenging 200-kilometer stretch of the Río de la Plata between Buenos Aires and Montevideo, completing the journey in just over two hours.

Built: 2013
Length: 99 m
Beam: 26 m
Draft: 2.9 m
Capacity: 1,000 passengers, 150 cars
Tonnage: Gross – 7100 tons, dead weight – 450 tons
Engine: 2 Engines with 60,000 Horsepower
Speed: Over 58 knots
Operator: Argentine company Babus
Route: Buenos Aires to Montevideo

Topping our list is the Francisco, sailing under the flag of Uruguay. This catamaran, powered by liquefied natural gas, holds the prestigious record for being the fastest ferry globally, ensuring a rapid journey between Buenos Aires and Montevideo.

#2. El Dorado Express Ferry: Racing Across Water at 50 Knots

The El Dorado Express, a cutting-edge high-speed catamaran ferry, has proven its prowess by reaching an impressive speed of 50.2 knots during sea trials. Designed by Revolution Design and meticulously crafted by Incat Tasmania, the ferry is equipped with four formidable Caterpillar C280-16 6,000kW diesel engines that efficiently propel it forward through Kongsberg KaMeWa S90-4 steerable waterjets. Complementing its power, the vessel features two Caterpillar C7.1 generators, each rated at 200 ekW, operating at 380V and 60Hz. Destined to serve Daezer Ferry, the El Dorado Express is earmarked for the vital crossing between Pohang and Ulleungdo, an island situated 117 miles off the eastern coast of South Korea. This high-speed ferry is poised not only to meet the transportation needs of local residents but also to cater to the influx of tourists, ensuring swift and efficient travel across these maritime routes.

Built: 2023
Length: 76 m
Beam: 20 m
Draft: 3 m
Capacity: 990 passengers, 25 tons of cargo
Tonnage: Gross – 3100 tons, dead weight – 320 tons
Engine: 2 Engines with 32,100 Horsepower
Speed: Over 50 knots
Operator: South Korean company Deser Ferry
Route: Y Long Island to Poang

The El Dorado Express, sailing under the flag of Panama, is a new-generation catamaran known for its remarkable speed. Operated by Deser Ferry, it provides a swift connection between Y Long Island and the city of Poang.

#3. World Champion Jet Ferry: A Speed Marvel in Greek Waters

The WorldChampion Jet, a high-speed passenger ferry operated by Seajets, is a maritime marvel boasting a top speed of 50 knots, providing rapid transportation for over 1,280 passengers and 140 vehicles. Measuring 87 meters in length and 24 meters in width, this cabin-free vessel, originally named the Villum Clausen, was constructed by Austal in Perth, Australia, in 2000. After serving the route between Rønne and Ystad until 2018, it found a new home with Seajets in December 2017, transitioning from the Baltic to the Aegean. Renamed the “formula one of the Aegean,” the WorldChampion Jet held speed records for 13 years, reaching 47.7 knots in 2000. Due to its popularity and limited availability, early ticket booking is recommended, solidifying its status as an iconic and in-demand high-speed ferry in maritime travel.

Built: 2000
Length: 87 m
Beam: 24 m
Draft: 3.2 m
Capacity: 1,300 passengers, 222 Vehicles
Engine: 2 Engines with 48,900 Horsepower
Speed: 50 Knots
Operator: Greek company Sea Jets
Route: Between the islands of Mos Noxos or Santorini

Part of the high-speed fleet of Sea Jets, the World Champion Jet sails under the flag of Cyprus, showcasing its agility in navigating the waters between the Greek islands of Mos Noxos and Santorini.

#4. Express 3 Ferry: Danish Efficiency at 48 Knots

The Express 3, a high-speed vehicle-passenger ferry stretching 109 meters, stands as a testament to Australian shipbuilding prowess, having been meticulously crafted by Incat Tasmania for the esteemed Danish operator Molslinjen. Notably, during sea trials, the Express 3 showcased its impressive capabilities, achieving a commendable speed of 43 knots at 600 tonnes deadweight, surpassing contractual speed and fuel consumption expectations. As the fourth Hobart-built catamaran in the company’s current fleet, the Express 3 incorporates a keel skeg to enhance directional stability, further emphasizing its commitment to efficiency and performance. In a league of the fastest catamaran ferries globally, the Express 3 joins the ranks of notable routes like Kiel-Oslo, Sicily, Fire Island, Long Island, and Block Island, solidifying its place among the maritime speed champions.

Built: 2017
Length: 109 m
Beam: 30 m
Draft: 4 m
Capacity: 1,000 passengers, 415 cars
Engine: 4 Engines with 48,000 Horsepower
Speed: 48 knots
Operator: Danish company Mosin
Route: Between the port of Oden and the cities of Arus and Eov

Operating under the Danish flag, Express 3 is a catamaran designed for efficiency. With a maximum speed of 48 knots, it connects the port of Oden to the cities of Arus and Eov in Denmark.

#5. Alakai Ferry: Bridging the Atlantic at 43 Knots

The Alakai, a high-speed passenger and vehicle ferry renowned for its swift capabilities, boasts a remarkable speed of up to 43 knots, with a draft of 3.6 meters and a substantial beam of 24 meters. With a length of 106.50 meters, the vessel, built by Austal USA’s Mobile, Alabama yard in 2007, can accommodate 866 passengers and 282 cars. Originally serving a daily mail route between Oahu and Maui, the Alakai faced a setback in 2009 when Hawaii’s Supreme Court mandated an environmental review, leading to the permanent cancellation of its operations in the region. Despite being considered a 350-foot aluminum catamaran capable of navigating some of the world’s roughest seas at 40 miles per hour, the Alakai reportedly incurred financial losses for Hawaii Superferry. Subsequently chartered by Bay Ferries Limited, the ferry found a new purpose in operating a service between Maine and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. In a testament to its adaptability and humanitarian commitment, the Alakai, alongside its sister ship Huakai, played a crucial role in the earthquake relief effort in Haiti in 2010.

Built: 2007
Length: 106 m
Beam: 24 m
Draft: 3.3 m
Capacity: 866 passengers, 282 cars
Engine: 4 Engines with 44,000 Horsepower
Speed: 43 knots
Operator: Canadian company Bay Ferries
Route: Between Maine and Nova Scotia

Sailing under the American flag, Alakai, operated by Bay Ferries, seamlessly transports passengers and vehicles between the picturesque locales of Maine and Nova Scotia.

#6. Vulcan de Tagoro Ferry: Spanish Speed in the Atlantic

The HSC Volcán de Tagoro stands as an exemplary fast ferry, reaching impressive speeds of 42.4 knots (78.5 km/h; 48.8 mph) with a service speed of 35 knots (65 km/h; 40 mph). This high-speed craft is a substantial vessel, measuring 111 meters (364 ft) in length, 30.5 meters (100 ft) in width, and featuring a draught of 4.16 meters (13.6 ft). Designed for both speed and capacity, the Volcán de Tagoro can comfortably carry 1,184 passengers and accommodate 390 vehicles. Constructed in Hobart, Australia, by Incat, this ferry operates on Naviera Armas routes, connecting travelers to various destinations. With amenities and services that enhance the passenger experience, information about the ferry’s current location available live on the map, and the convenience of booking ferry tickets through platforms like Ferryhopper, the Volcán de Tagoro exemplifies modern maritime travel at its finest.

Built: 2019
Length: 111 m
Beam: 30 m
Draft: 4.1 m
Capacity: 1,184 passengers, 390 Vehicles
Engine: 4 Engines with 48,000 Horsepower
Speed: Over 42 knots
Operator: Spanish company Naviera Armas
Route: Navigates the Atlantic Ocean, providing a fast transport service between the Canary Islands

A powerhouse operated by Naviera Armas, the Vulcan de Tagoro, sailing under the Spanish flag, conquers the Atlantic, offering rapid transport between the Canary Islands.

#7. Tarifa Jet Ferry: Cypress Elegance at 42 Knots

The Tarifa Jet, a high-speed catamaran ferry sailing under the flag of Cyprus, commands the seas with a maximum service speed of 42 knots (78 km/h; 48 mph). With dimensions of 86.62 meters in length, 26.00 meters in beam, and a draft of 3.62 meters, this sleek vessel has a gross tonnage of 4,995 GT. Operated by FRS Ferries, the Tarifa Jet is a maritime powerhouse, capable of carrying 769 passengers and accommodating 145 vehicles. Since its construction in 1997, it has been a stalwart on the Tarifa – Tangier Ville route, known for its efficiency and speed. Departing at strategic intervals of 15:00, 17:00, 19:00, and 21:00, the fastest crossing on this route takes approximately one hour, providing passengers with a swift and reliable transportation option. Notably, the Tarifa Port car park offers various fee structures, with a discount for ferry passengers who pay at the kiosk and present their ferry tickets, making the overall travel experience seamless and convenient for both locals and tourists alike.

Built: 1997
Length: 86 m
Beam: 26 m
Draft: 3.8 m
Capacity: 769 passengers, 145 Vehicles
Engine: 4 Engines with 40,000 Horse Power
Speed: 42 knots
Operator: FRS Iberia
Route: Straight of Jalter, between Spain and Morocco

Under the flag of Cypress, Tarfa Jet, operated by FRS Iberia, elegantly cruises through the Straight of Jalter, seamlessly connecting Spain and Morocco at a maximum speed of 42 knots.

#8. Express 5 Ferry: Danish Efficiency Redefined at 40 Knots

The Express 5 stands as an impressive high-speed catamaran ferry, seamlessly navigating the Molslinjen Bornholm route between the Danish towns of Ystad and Rønne. With a service speed of 37 knots and a Top Speed 40 knots, this vessel is a testament to efficiency and speed in maritime travel, catering to the transportation needs of the region. Boasting a substantial capacity, the Express 5 can comfortably accommodate 1,610 passengers and up to 450 cars, making it one of the world’s largest fast ferries in terms of both passenger and vehicle capacity. Powered by an LNG-capable, medium-speed power plant, the ferry is a remarkable feat in modern maritime engineering, ensuring not only swift travel but also environmental sustainability. Developed specifically for Danish ferry operator Molslinjen, the Express 5 was launched at Austal’s fast ferry yard in the Philippines, further solidifying its place as a technological marvel in the world of high-speed ferry operations.

Built: 2023
Length: 115 m
Beam: 30 m
Draft: 3.3 m
Capacity: 1,600 passengers, 450 cars
Engine: 4 Engines with 52,000 Horse Power
Speed: 40 knots
Operator: Danish company Molslinjen
Route: Between the cities of Istad and Ron in Denmark

Setting new standards in efficiency, Express 5, sailing under the Danish flag, operates in Denmark, connecting the cities of Istad and Ron with a speed of 40 knots.

#9. Fjord FST Ferry: Norwegian Prowess at 40 Knots

The Fjord FSTR is a remarkable high-speed catamaran ferry designed for efficient transportation between Norway and Denmark. With a capacity to carry 1,200 passengers and 404 cars, this vessel operates between March and October, offering the fastest crossing time of just 2 hours and 15 minutes. The Fjord FSTR achieves impressive speeds of up to 40 knots, ensuring swift and timely travel across the water. Notably, the ferry features two decks, providing ample space for both passengers and vehicles, and its substantial beam of 30.5 meters represents Austal’s largest-ever vehicle-carrying capacity. Positioned as a replacement for the Fjord Cat, the Fjord FSTR doubles the capacity on the fastest sea route between Norway and Denmark, emphasizing its significance in enhancing maritime connectivity and efficiency in the region.

Built: 2021
Length: 109 m
Beam: 30 m
Draft: 3.4 m
Capacity: 1,200 passengers, 400 cars
Engine: 4 Engines with 51,000 Horse Power
Speed: 40 knots
Operator: Norwegian company Fjord Line
Route: Rapid transportation of goods, cars, and passengers in the Skager Strait

Sailing under the Danish flag, Fjord FST, operated by Fjord Line, showcases Norwegian engineering prowess, facilitating rapid transportation in the challenging waters of the Skager Strait.

#10. Bañaderos Express Ferry: Spanish Trimaran Efficiency at 39 Knots

The Bañaderos Express, a commanding 118-meter trimaran ferry, sets sail as a pinnacle of maritime engineering, promising efficient transport with a cruising speed exceeding 37 knots and a top speed of 39 knots, driven by four main engines and Kongsberg KaMeWa 125 S3 waterjets through Reintjes VLJ 7531 gearboxes. This impressive vessel, equipped to carry 1,100 passengers and 276 cars, not only excels in speed and capacity but also enhances the onboard experience with multiple bars, kiosks, a retail shop, a children’s play area, and cafeterias. Delivered in May 2020, the Bañaderos Express is poised to join the Agaete to Santa Cruz de Tenerife route alongside the Bajamar Express, marking a significant addition to maritime connectivity in the Canary Islands and emphasizing a seamless blend of cutting-edge technology and passenger-centric amenities for a delightful journey.

Built: 2021
Length: 118 m
Beam: 29 m
Draft: 3.8 m
Capacity: 1,100 passengers, 276 cars
Speed: 39 knots
Operator: Fred Olsen Express
Route: Sails through the Canary Archipelago, between the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria

The Bañaderos Express, proudly sailing under the Spanish flag, is a trimaran renowned for its efficiency and sustainability. Operated by Fred Olsen Express, it connects the Canary Islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria at a speed of 39 knots.

Conclusion:

These top 10 fastest ferries represent a fusion of cutting-edge technology, engineering brilliance, and maritime elegance. As they gracefully traverse the world’s waterways, these vessels not only break speed barriers but also exemplify the pinnacle of efficiency and sustainability in modern maritime transportation.

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