“Kilimanjaro” was eased effortlessly into the water for the first time on Sunday, the 5th of July, 2009 after an impressive six month build period. “Kilimanjaro” has a measured length of 35 metres with an overall length of 36.8 metres. She is an Incat Crowther design catamaran ferry that carries 400 passengers at a service speed of 22 knots. The main cabin (economy class) contains seating for 200 passengers with further seating for 128 passengers in the first class upper deck cabin. In addition there is a further 72 exterior seats behind the upper cabin and on the wheelhouse deck. The lower aft deck of the vessel has been arranged with 4 toilet spaces, including spacious disabled facilities. There is also a luggage room and the stairway to the mid deck. With large and abundant tinted windows, the vessel provides excellent, panoramic viewing from all seats, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery. “Kilimanjaro” will join as queen of the ‘Coastal Fast Ferries’ fleet, operating between Dar es Salaam and the island of Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania. Passenger comfort is ensured with a zoned, fully air conditioned interior, kiosk and even plush leather recliner lounges in an exclusive, forward VIP area. There is extensive use of quality exterior grade carpet on the outdoor decks, whilst the interior decks are finished in commercial grade vinyl with a light, wood grain finish. For those that appreciate the wind in their hair there is even seating provided on the carpeted foredeck! The wheelhouse and wing stations enjoy superb visibility making manoeuvring easy, whilst extensive, robust fendering along the vessel sides provide protection in challenging berthing situations. Passengers on the awning covered, open third deck have a tremendous view all round and can keep an eye on operations through the aft wheelhouse windows. Powered by twin Cummins KTA 38M2’s each producing 1050 HP, the vessel cruises at 24 knots half load. “Kilimanjaro” is a near sister ship to the “MV Eagle” which was launched from the RDM yard in 2007 and is operated by ‘World Heritage Cruises’ on Tasmania’s west coast. There are subtle differences between the vessels to accommodate the operational requirements of the Tanzanian owner.
