THE SECOND in the new fleet of next-generation Parramatta Class ferries has entered service in Sydney just a fortnight after its arrival to the state’s capital.
Designed by Australian company Incat Crowther, John Nutt completed its maiden landing in late June this year at the iconic Man O’War steps in Sydney’s Farm Cove, following a successful three-day voyage from Tasmania.
John Nutt, the second of seven of the new fleet, was built by Tasmanian shipbuilder Richardson Devine Marine, and following final checks by operator Transdev, has entered service on the busy commuter route between Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park and Circular Quay.
John Nutt was constructed using Incat Crowther’s digital shipbuilding service, with a multitude of stakeholders contributing to the design and delivery of the vessel, the company said.
Brett Crowther, CEO of Incat Crowther, said the vessel entering service so quickly demonstrates digital shipbuilding’s ability to produce accurate, repeatable, and operation-ready ships.
“Incat Crowther has a proven track record of partnering with governments and mass transit operators around the world to deliver tailored passenger ferries, efficiently and at pace,” Mr Crowther said.
“We are excited to see the second Parramatta Class Ferry now servicing Sydney commuters and passengers so quickly.”
Each of the Parramatta Class ferries are expected to have a 25 to 30 year working life, and are future proofed for conversion to electric propulsion when infrastructure is ready, Incat Crowther says.
The “future-focused” design of the fleet includes full air-conditioning, floor-to-ceiling views, and a 200-person capacity.
Incat Crowther says it worked closely with Transport for NSW and operator Transdev on the digital design of the new commuter ferry fleet, utilising augmented reality headset technology to enable efficient collaboration via digital model of the ship, throughout the process.
The latest vessel is named in honour of Dr John Nutt, an iconic Australian civil engineer, known for his lead role in the construction of the Sydney Opera House, with the vessel’s arrival in Sydney paying tribute to Dr Nutt’s contributions to Sydney’s maritime heritage.
The ferry’s name is not to be confused with John Nutt the 17th-century English pirate, a notorious brigand whose piratical career saw him raid the coasts of southern Canada and western England for three years.
