(BELLINGHAM, Wash.) — All American Marine (AAM) has delivered Chugach Express to Phillips Cruises and Tours. The high-speed and long-range eco-tour vessel will operate daily in Prince William Sound and will be based out of Whittier, Alaska.
Developed by Nic de Waal of Teknicraft Design in Auckland, New Zealand, Chugach Express features an 84.5-by-30.7-foot semi-displacement aluminum catamaran hull. Its design incorporates a dynamic aluminum hydrofoil, enhancing speed and stability at high speeds.
The vessel’s propulsion package consists of MJP 350X waterjets powered by quad Scania DI16 082M engines rated at 800 hp. Constructed to U.S. Coast Guard Subchapter T classification standards, the 150-passenger vessel has a fuel capacity of 1,200 gallons.
“With the delivery of the Chugach Express from All American Marine, we’re thrilled to embark on this new chapter for our business,” said Casey Neumann, managing partner, Phillips Cruises and Tours. “Working with the in-house design/build operation of Teknicraft and All American was seamless. We’re already impressed by how well the vessel performs, and we can’t wait to enhance our guests’ experiences and ensure our company operates efficiently and sustainably.”
The new sightseeing vessel integrates the signature Teknicraft Design symmetrical and asymmetrical combined hull shape, bow wave piercer, and a patented hydrofoil-assisted hull design. The hull and hull components are designed to break up wave action and ensure reduced drag while enhancing passenger comfort.
Teknicraft’s hydrofoil-assisted hull design is proven to have low-wake wash energy and fuel economy. The main foil action reduces the power needed to maintain service speed; therefore, fuel consumption and running costs are reduced significantly while enhancing the ride’s softness, especially in choppy seas.
The hydrofoil system consists of the main foil spanning the tunnel at the keel, forward of the center of gravity position and two cantilever-type stern foils. The lift produced by the hydrofoil reduces the hull resistance while increasing speed and load-bearing capability.
The vessel features excellent fuel economy while maintaining an estimated fully laden cruise speed of 32-plus knots. Passengers can enjoy 150 fully enclosed seats with tables between two decks with dual pane windows, as well as exterior seating and standing room for nature viewing.
Interior amenities include Beurteaux seats and electrical outlets with USB plugs at every table. The entire main deck, including the bow, has wheelchair access and the main deck cabin includes wheelchair-designated seating locations. Passengers can also enjoy refreshments from a full galley and bar in the main deck cabin.
– All American Marine
