One of the world’s largest heavy lift vessels is sitting off Tranmere, preparing to collect Incat’s record-breaking battery-electric ferry and carry it to South America.
The 217-metre semi-submersible Black Marlin reached the River Derwent this afternoon ahead of Thursday’s planned loading of Hull 096.
The vessel travelled from South Africa to transport the battery-electric ship to Buquebus, where it will enter service between Argentina and Uruguay.
The 130-metre ferry was moved from Incat’s shipyard at Prince of Wales Bay to Macquarie Wharf on Saturday in what was its final voyage under its own power in Tasmanian waters.
The loading of Hull 096 is scheduled for Thursday, subject to weather and operational requirements, with the vessel to be floated aboard the Black Marlin in what Incat says will be one of the most complex maritime operations ever undertaken in Tasmania.
As a semi-submersible vessel, the Black Marlin can lower its cargo deck beneath the waterline by taking on ballast water.
Hull 096 will then be positioned above the submerged deck before the water is pumped out, lifting the cargo clear of the surface.
Incat chairman Robert Clifford said the arrival of the Black Marlin signalled the final stage of Hull 096’s time in Tasmania.
“After years of design, engineering and construction, we’re now preparing for one of the most significant maritime operations ever undertaken in Tasmania,” he said.
“Watching it load Hull 096 will be a spectacular sight and a proud moment for Tasmania.”
“Very few people ever get the chance to see an operation like this up close.”
Once delivered, the vessel will be known as the China Zorrilla and operate between Buenos Aires and Colonia in Uruguay.
It will carry up to 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles, powered by more than 250 tonnes of batteries and eight electric waterjets.
Exclusion zones will be in place on the water during the loading operation, with restrictions also applying to drone use.
