The Wesmar V2-28-185 HP counter rotating dual-prop stainless steel bow thruster systems will be installed on the 187 ft MV Queenscliff, a double ended ro-ro ferry that provides hourly service between the towns of Queensland and Sorento.
The thrusters, which have been designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, will enhance the vessel’s manouverability when operating in tight quarters and crowded harbours. They will also enable the Queenscliff to stay steady at the dock, allowing fast, safe and efficient on and off loading of cars and passengers.
Cary Jones, mechanical division president, Wesmar, told Maritime Journal: “The Wesmar systems are actually replacing two non-Wesmar systems which were not performing to the owners’ expectations. Installation is scheduled for June 2013.”
The vessel, which can accommodate 80 vehicles and 700 passengers, has been operating between the two cities since 1993.
Wesmar’s bow thrusters have been installed on passenger and car ferries around the world, many of which are similar to the catamaran design of the Queenscliff.
