Diversification keeps fast ferry builders afloat

摘要

Despite the depressed market for fast ferries some designers and builders are managing to remain afloat with a degree of success. The USA is providing some useful orders - on the commercial side as well as the military, an area in which many see a future for the high speed light weight transport vessel. Australia, once, and arguably still, the leading fast ferry building nation is seeing mixed fortune for its shipbuilders, several of whom are diversifying into other fields - the country's industry is covered comprehensively elsewhere in this issue. Things are comparatively quiet on the European front. Probably the highest profile at present in Europe is enjoyed by Italian designer/builder Rodriquez. The group's parent Rodriquez Cantieri Navali is headquartered in Messina, Sicily, and since its foundation in 1956, when it pioneered commercial hydrofoils, has built over 250 ships including many fast passenger ferries in service in 24 countries. The commercial offices are located in Genoa, with yards in Messina (Sicily), Pietra Ligure (close to Savona), and Pozzuoli (Naples). A further location has recently been added following the acquisition of Intermarine, with premises in Sarzana (La Spezia), presently mainly concerned with yacht building.