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that they want to add to their fleets. While the project's main particulars are not set in stone, Pfister did express that the ferry's design, which will be com- pleted by Austal's own designers in Aus- tralia, will boast a color scheme of blue, orange and yellow hues. While he wasn't at liberty to discuss specific names of probable buyers, he did mention that one specified that the vessel be equipped with seats manufactured by the Aus- tralian-based company named Berteaux. Circle 30 on Reader Service Card New Vessel Delivered To Tranz Rail Tranz Rail has acquired The Lynx, for- merly known as Incat Tasmania, after a comprehensive strategic review of its fleet configuration. Previously Tranz Rail chartered earlier generation Incat- rj. built vessels from U.K. operator Condor Ferries to meet the needs of a seasonal fast ferry service. The Lynx entered ser- vice between Wellington and Picton on December 10 and extended Tranz Rail's fast ferry operation to a year round ser- vice and, with commercial vehicle capacity available enabled the withdraw- al of a 28-year-old conventional freight ferry. Returning as a year-round service, the (98 m) Evolution 10B Class ferry, which as 380 lane m capacity for vehicles, has been long term chartered by Tranz Rail. Beginning this February, when terminal facilities are completed in Wellington, The Lynx will be also be able to carry commercial vehicles. The Evolution 10B class extends Incat's 10-year history in the production of high speed Wave Piercing ferries and delivers proven technology in a vessel capable of carrying a mix of passengers and freight at speeds over 40 knots. The vessel's retractable "T-foil" on its center hull is designed to give a smooth ride in rough seas, such as can be experienced on Cook Strait. This summer, Lynx will be doing only two return sailings a day due to the 18-knot speed limit in the Marlborough Sounds. Lynx was due to arrive in Wellington on November 27. Circle 16 on Reader Service Card January, 2001 www.vanhallhealth.com Are you paying too much for (J^S. medical bills? Circle 261 on Reader Service Card Circle 201 on Reader Service Card www.maritimetoday.com 13 ABSolutely Determined to Exceed Your Expectations Setting Standards of Excellence in Marine and Offshore Classification ABS offers practical, innovative solutions to the challenges of designing, building and safely operating the next generation of cruise ships and passenger vessels. Our team provides guidance on SOLAS, ISM, USCG and other regulatory compliance issues. Our risk management experts can identify and mitigate risk. And, our experienced engineers have developed advanced standards for structural safety, crew habitability and passenger comfort. FOUNDED 1362