SeaStreak Launches New High-Speed Catamaran

SeaStreak America, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sea Containers Limited, added another catamaran ferry to its service in the New York market with the May 3, 2001 launch of the 140-ft. (42.6 m) commuter and leisure vessel M/V SeaStreak New York.

The 400-passenger vessel will provide service between New York City and New Jersey.

SeaStreak New York joins a SeaStreak fleet of two 300-passenger catamarans already providing commuter service between Atlantic Highlands and Highlands, N.J., and Manhattan, and the 149-passenger SeaStreak Brooklyn, which offers service between Brooklyn and Manhattan.

The state-of-the-art, double-hulled catamaran, built by Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding in Somerset, Mass., features three decks including wind-protected outdoor space, innovative measures to prevent icing of decks and ramps, automatic doors, a bar area, and three restrooms. Traveling at a service speed of 38 knots, SeaStreak New York is expected to offer 35-minute passage from New Jersey to points in Manhattan for both business commuting and sightseeing.