Eastern Shipbuilding Group Inc. (ESG), Panama City, Fla., has delivered the vehicle-passenger ferry Falcon to the Fisher Island Community Association, the shipbuilder announced. The vessel completed sea trials prior to delivery and has entered service on the route between Fisher Island, Fla., and mainland Miami.
Constructed at ESG's Allanton facility and designed by Elliott Bay Design Group, the 152' Falcon measures 52' in beam with a molded depth of 12' and an 8' draft. The steel-hulled vessel is certified under 46 CFR Subchapter T and is capable of carrying approximately 30 vehicles.
The ferry is powered by a Caterpillar C-18 main engine rated at 600 hp, paired with Hundested CPG 38 vertical-offset marine reduction gears featuring internal main shaft thrust bearings and hydraulic multi-plate clutches. Propulsion is provided by a Hundested VP10 controllable pitch propeller — a 4-bladed, 67" diameter, right-hand unit in nickel-aluminum-bronze. Propulsion controls are handled by a Marex OS II CPP system from Aventics-Rexroth, with steering by Jastram. Ship's service power comes from a Caterpillar C4.4 generator, and the vessel carries up to 9,800 gals. of fuel. Navigation electronics are supplied by Simrad.
"We are honored to deliver the Falcon to the Fisher Island Community Association," said Joey D'Isernia, ESG chairman and CEO. "This project reflects the dedication, craftsmanship, and attention to detail of our shipbuilding team."
Robert Sosa, FICA president and CEO, said the vessel will play an important role in meeting the community's transportation needs while providing a safe and comfortable passenger experience.
