RESIDENTS of Region One are set to benefit from improved ferry transportation following the acquisition of a new Greek vessel, Kalliopi N.
Inspecting the new vessel on Wednesday, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill said the addition of the ferry to the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) fleet will increase the number of ferries servicing the region to four.
“The people of Region One now have four boats to improve their service and to improve efficiency,” he stated.
The Kalliopi N will join the MV MA Lisha, MV Kimbia and MV Kanawan, which currently operate along the Region One route.
The vessel, which is expected to be renamed by President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, is among the newest acquired by the T&HD, having been built in 2024.
It is expected to serve areas such as Mabaruma and Port Kaituma, providing increased connectivity for residents and businesses. The acquisition of the Kalliopi N was made possible through a partnership with the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).
The vessel can carry 264 seated passengers, about 82 European-style cars and 19 trucks. It is also fully air-conditioned.
The government is also exploring the installation of WiFi services across its fleet of vessels.
MARAD’s Director General, Stephen Thomas, said contractors have carried out several upgrades to the vessel over the past few months.
These included the installation of additional accommodation spaces, new sanitary facilities and a new crew gallery.
Passenger seats were also fitted with waterproof coverings.
The vessel is also expected to be utilised in the 60th Independence Anniversary celebrations during the “Diamond Odyssey Cruise” boating event on Sunday. (DPI)