The Viking LifeCraft system is due to be installed on its first series of newbuild vessels. The system will serve as the main evacuation solution onboard the new diesel electric hybrid Interislander ferry fleet operated by KiwiRail to connect the two main islands of New Zealand
KiwiRail ferries has provided a connection for 800,000 annual passengers between New Zealand’s North and South Islands across the Cook Strait. The company is replacing the fleet with two new purpose-built ships, currently in the advanced design phase at the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in South Korea.
The LifeCraft evacuation system from Viking Life-Saving Equipment has been chosen as the new primary safety system onboard. The system comprises four 203-person self-propelled survival craft. These combine the features of a premium lifeboat, liferaft and evacuation system technology in a novel hybrid solution.
LifeCraft is also a compact system and all elements of the survival system are stored together in the same unit which can be either placed on deck or built into the side of the vessel.
Should it be needed, the system is able to evacuate over 800 people within only 30 minutes. After evacuation, each of the craft can take advantage of their electric propulsion to maintain a safe position while awaiting rescue. The four electric engines combined with a high level of seaworthiness, means that each craft can use its 360-degree maneuverability and acceleration to support SAR operations.
