The following is text of a news release from All American Marine (AAM):
(BELLINGHAM, Wash.) — All American Marine, together with Great Western Attractions (GWA), has launched Orca I, the first of two 80-by-27-foot aluminum catamarans for operation as a passenger excursion vessels in Puget Sound. Designed by Teknicraft in Auckland, New Zealand, these identical Subchapter T-certified vessels were constructed at All American Marine’s 57,000-square-foot facility on Bellingham Bay. These vessels will be a part of GWA’s multi-faceted tourism experience based in downtown Seattle. The second sister ship will be launched in June.
These new vessels will combine innovative design features to enhance the passenger experience during excursions, as well as celebrating the prominent native culture that is a significant part of life in the Pacific Northwest. One specific feature is the unique design of an extended hull section on the bow and stern, creating a canoe-like appearance. These 149-passenger catamarans are powered by twin Caterpillar C18 engines rated at 803 hp at 2,100 rpm, driving Veem nibral propellers. The vessels are constructed to Coast Guard Subchapter T standards, designed for passenger use on lakes, bays and sounds.
“All American Marine is proud to build such unique vessels for an iconic Seattle company and to support expansion of GWA’s tourism operations," said AAM business development manager Ron Wille. "Our mission is to provide our operators with the best custom vessel for their application, and we are excited to help design and build GWA’s first two vessels.”
As owners of the Seattle Great Wheel and Wings over Washington, both located on Pier 57 on Seattle’s waterfront, GWA is a leader in the Seattle tourism industry.
