Emerald Clipper, FRS Clipper’s new 103’ state-of-the-art whale watching catamaran, was launched with a naming ceremony in April. Designed to give guests better viewing opportunities, more comfort, and an unforgettable on-the-water experience, this will be the only wildlife and whale watching tour to depart directly from Seattle. FRS Clipper commissioned the vessel’s owner, CNI Newco, to have the Emerald Clipper built by fellow PVA member Mavrik Marine, Inc. in La Conner, Wash.
The Emerald Clipper has more capacity than its predecessor and will welcome up to 300 guests allowing more visitors to learn about the wildlife and environment of the Salish Sea. With a cruising speed over 32 knots, it’ll reach the viewing locations more quickly making two sailings per day possible.
The vessel features two sheltered outdoor decks and floor-to-ceiling windows in the heated cabin. Amenities include a galley serving hot meals, as well as a naturalist station where guests can deepen their understanding of the region’s marine life. Daily tours began May 1.
The Emerald Clipper offers improvements from the previous vessel, the San Juan Clipper, and is low wake at high speed. The vessel is over 50 percent more fuel efficient than the San Juan Clipper at the same speed (24 knots) and can cruise at a faster speed still operating almost 40 percent more efficiently on fuel.
The ceremony speakers included executives from FRS Clipper, the ship owner of the Emerald Clipper, and leaders from the Suquamish Tribal Council. In the long-honored naval tradition of blessing a new vessel launch with a naming ceremony by the ship’s godmother, Jo Mihok, a long-time Clipper employee, broke a bottle against the hull to christen the vessel.
The Emerald Clipper arrives as the centerpiece of FRS Clipper’s 40th anniversary of connecting Seattle and Victoria through their fast ferry service. Founded in 1986, Clipper Navigation, Inc. (doing business as FRS Clipper) has welcomed more than eight million guests over four decades. As part of the anniversary celebrations, this year guests can enjoy a lineup of new experiences and partnerships offered by the operation.