Capable of transporting up to 493 passengers across three spacious passenger decks, the vessel is capable of reaching speeds in excess of 30 knots and has been designed specifically for the unique local conditions experienced off the coast of Cape Cod.

The vessel is powered by four Cummins QSK60-M Tier 4 engines driving four Hamilton HTX65 waterjet units, meeting US emissions standards for domestic ferry operations. Composite shafting supplied by Driveline Service of Portland is incorporated into the drivetrain, reducing weight and maintenance requirements. The aluminium hull and superstructure construction supports the vessel’s performance targets, ensuring efficient and safe operations and features active ride control technology supplied by Naiad.

Passenger amenity has also been a key focus of the design process. The vessel’s main deck offers spacious indoor seating for 166 passengers and boasts a large 87 square-metre luggage room complete with a dedicated bicycle rack. The mid-deck features indoor seating for 154 passengers as well as covered and heated outdoor seating for 88 passengers. The vessel’s wheelhouse deck offers a commanding forward view for the vessel’s captain and crew while also offering heated outdoor seating for 140 passengers. Passenger flow across the vessel has been enhanced via multiple indoor and outdoor staircases connecting all three passenger decks.

Hy-Line Cruises President Murray Scudder said: “The new vessel designed by Incat Crowther is perfectly suited to our unique operational requirements. Incat Crowther’s deep understanding of our business and the success of other Incat Crowther-designed vessels in our fleet meant that partnering with Incat Crowther on this project made sense. Working closely with their team of naval architects, we are confident that the new vessel currently under construction will meet the highest safety and operational standards while providing our passengers with an exceptional experience on one of the most iconic ferry routes in the United States.”

Grant Pecoraro, Managing Director North America at Incat Crowther, said: “This vessel is custom-designed and built in the US and is an example of Incat Crowther’s sovereign design and build capabilities for North American operators. This project also renews our successful partnership with Hy-Line Cruises, and we’re delighted to be supporting the expansion of their fleet to meet growing customer demand.”

Construction on the new vessel is expected to be completed by 2028.