(PANAMA CITY, Fla.) — Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) has been awarded a contract to construct the newest ferry for the Fisher Island Community Association Inc. (FICA) in Florida. The passenger and vehicle vessel will be constructed at ESG’s Allanton and Port St. Joe facilities and is expected for delivery in 2026.
“Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) delivered the vehicle passenger ferry Heron to the Fisher Island Community Association Inc. over 20 years ago, and we understand that she has been the most reliable ferry in their fleet. We look forward to delivering another robust and reliable ESG built ferry that will serve the residents of Fisher Island for decades to come,” said Joey D’Isernia, chairman and CEO of ESG. “In collaboration with FICA and Elliott Bay Design Group (EBDG), this ferry will be built with yacht-style finishes and will provide safe and comfortable transportation for the residents of the Fisher Island community.”
“The Heron is probably the most reliable ferry in our fleet,” said Roberto Sosa, president and CEO of Fisher Island Community Association Inc. “The quality and design of this specific ferry, along with their reputations in the industry, are the main reasons we chose Eastern Shipbuilding Group and Elliott Bay Design Group. We look forward to continuing our relationship with them throughout the construction of this ferry.”
“Elliott Bay Design Group is excited to continue our longstanding relationship with the Fisher Island Community Association Inc. and collaborate on another exceptional ferry project,” said John Waterhouse, principal in charge at EBDG. “Partnering once more with Eastern Shipbuilding Group emphasizes our commitment to designing and delivering top-tier vessels while maintaining strong client relationships. Together, we look forward to bringing Fisher Island’s vision to life with yet another innovative and reliable ferry design.”
Vessel specs
Length overall – 152 feet
Beam – 52 feet
Depth – 12 feet
Draft – 8 feet
Horsepower (1,800 rpm) – 1,200 hp total
Automobile capacity – 30
Passenger capacity – 150
– Eastern Shipbuilding Group
