Wightlink takes delivery of Wight Ryder I

UK cross-Solent ferry operator Wightlink has technically accepted the first of two new catamaran passenger ferries building at the FBMA Marine shipyard in Cebu, Philippines, Wight Ryder I, with sistership Wight Ryder II being launched last week.

Both 40m, 260 passenger capacity vessels have been designed specifically for Wightlink’s passenger-only service linking Portsmouth Harbour railway station with Ryde on the Isle of Wight.

The highly-efficient BMT NGA design, which reduces average fuel consumption by over 45%, has an operating speed of 22 knots and a maximum speed of 25 knots. Both Philippine newbuildings will replace Wightlink’s ageing FastCats on the Portsmouth-Ryde route.