Built by Incat in Tasmania and completed in April 2026, CHINA ZORRILLA measures 129.68 metres in length with a 32.36-metre beam and 14,058 GT. The craft is configured for 2,100 passengers and 226 cars, with eight Wärtsilä WXJ1100 waterjets driven by battery-electric propulsion. It carries a 43,000 kWh Corvus battery installation and is rated at a service speed of 25 knots. CHINA ZORRILLA is intended for Buquebus services in the River Plate region, on routes linking Argentina and Uruguay.

At 217.8 metres long and 42 metres wide, the BLACK MARLIN is among the larger vessels to enter the River Derwent. Built in 1999 by CSBC in Kaohsiung, it is one of the two Marlin-class heavy lift ships operated by Boskalis and is capable of carrying large marine structures.

Incat Chairman Robert Clifford said the arrival of the heavy lift vessel marked a further step in the project. "There is a great deal of interest in Hull 096, and we receive enquiries almost every day from people wanting to know what is happening with the vessel and when it will begin its journey to South America," Mr Clifford said.

"The arrival of the BLACK MARLIN signals that we are entering the final stage before the vessel departs Tasmania for its delivery voyage."

"The BLACK MARLIN is a notable vessel in its own right and will be one of the larger ships to enter the River Derwent. We've had people following the construction of this vessel, and I expect there will be interest in the next stage as it prepares to leave for South America."

Mr Clifford said Incat would provide updates as the BLACK MARLIN makes its way towards Hobart. "We'll be sharing updates on the vessel's progress as it heads towards Tasmania and prepares to load Hull 096."

Once in Hobart, the vessel will undertake a planned loading operation. As a semi-submersible heavy lift ship, the BLACK MARLIN can lower its cargo deck beneath the waterline by taking on ballast. CHINA ZORRILLA will then be manoeuvred into position above the submerged deck before the ballast water is pumped out, raising the cargo deck and its cargo clear of the water.