During the summer the ferry will also sail to Portland UK.

Braye Spirit is a variation of Alnmarintec's successful Wave-Train 1400 asymmetric catamaran, with deep-V sections forward developing into a medium deadrise aft. The hull form is expected to give excellent seakeeping and load carrying characteristics in the difficult conditions that will be encountered during year round service in the Channel Islands.

Throughout the design and build process Alnmarintec have worked closely with I.T. Ferries to create a vessel to best suit the intended service. Much attention has been paid to wheelhouse arrangement and accommodation to create a comfortable environment for the crew of four and 12 passengers.

Cargo capability is for four vehicles weighing up to 10 tonnes.

A special feature of the design is a hydraulic bow ramp designed to load cars, trailers and lorries from a wide variety of slipways quickly and efficiently.

Power will be provided by twin Cummins QSM -11-M engines rated 580hp at 2,300rpm and coupled to UltraJet 376 waterjets. The UltraJets are fitted with electro-hydraulic reverse control systems and are supplied complete with wiring harnesses between the helm controller and the control amplifier/hydraulic valve to allow 'plug and play' installation. Steering is by a manual hydraulic system with a conventional wheel. The propulsion package will take the ferry from Alderney to Diellette or Guernsey in just under an hour.

The catamaran has accommodation at deck level and on an upper deck, with passengers allocated a Kab reclining suspension seat with clear, forward facing views.

The ferry is now entering the final stages of build with trials in the near future. 'Fitting the Ultrajets for the first time was simple and problem free', says naval architect Andrew Thwaites, 'and we look forward to testing them out on the water in a few weeks time.

MJInformation No: 19241