Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. (ESG) successfully delivered the vehicle-passenger ferry Falcon to the Fisher Island Community Association to provide reliable and modern transportation service between the island and Miami. The vessel successfully completed trials prior to delivery and has entered service supporting daily operations.
Constructed at ESG’s Allanton facility, the ferry is the fifth in the association’s fleet. The vessel was built to meet the specific operational needs of the community while incorporating modern systems, enhanced passenger accommodations, and efficient vehicle transportation capabilities.
The 152ʹ vessel carries up to 30 vehicles and 150 passengers and will provide 24-hour service. Designed by Elliot Bay Design Group, the ferry features a flat vehicle deck and enclosed passenger cabin, allowing quick loading and turnaround. Design took six months, followed by 20 months of construction.
With a 12ʹ hull depth and 8ʹ draft, the ferry is propelled by two diesel engines, one per end. Each engine is rated at 600 BHP and drives a controllable pitch propeller through a reduction gear and sealed stern-tube mounted shafting. Steering is via rudders located aft of the propellers driven by a hydraulic steering system. The ship’s service electric power loads is served by two 99 KW diesel-generator sets feeding through a conventional marine electric power and lighting distribution system.