Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corporation announced the arrival of two more brand-new vessels (FCM17 & FCM18) under its flagship brand, FastCat.
It is here to serve the needs of the traveling public and business entities nationwide through its passenger and rolling cargo services.
To date, the company already has a total of sixteen (16) vessels connecting the major islands of the country. This makes them closer to its goal of completing the fleet of 30 vessels by 2031.
In 2018, shipbuilding began through the support of one of the country’s most trusted financial institution, Land Bank of the Philippines.
FCM17 and FCM18 are set to serve the islands of Palawan, Mindoro and/or Zamboanga-Basilan. This is in addition to the routes FastCat currently operates at nationwide, using its existing fleet. These are as follows:
1.) Batangas – Calapan
2.) Bulalacao – Caticlan (with weekly special trips via Caluya, a first Class Municipality of Antique)
3.) Iloilo – Bacolod (Banago/Bredcco)
4.) Dumaguete – Dapitan
5.) Cebu – Tubigon
6.) San Carlos – Toledo
7.) Matnog – Dapdap
8.) Matnog – San Isidro
9.) Liloan–Lipata
Currently, the company continues to operate nationwide to transport essential goods, front liners and authorized passengers to help keep the economy afloat. All safety and security protocols are also in place in preparation for the opening of boarders, anytime it will come.
Additionally, the company endlessly works toward the fulfillment of its brand promise of a FerrySafe, FerryFast and FerryConvenient travel experience.
The features of the said vessels are improved versions of their sisterships, FCM15 and 16. These are as follows:
- The engines are improved and upgraded with a higher horse power for better performance, reliability and fuel efficiency.
- The air conditioning of the vessel now uses a water-cooling system. Unlike normal air-conditioning system, it emits less Carbon Dioxide (CO2) therefore it is more environment friendly.
- For easy access, a dedicated accommodation area with an exclusive rest room, TV set and air conditioning are provided at the main deck for People with Disability (PWD), the elderly and pregnant women. It can hold up to 10 individuals. Those who are more physically capable can stay at the upper sections of the vessel with multiple accommodation options.
- A special type of roofing material made by Sunbrella, has been installed which reduces the heat, thus making it more comfortable for passengers at the sundeck. This is usually used by passenger ships in Australia, and other tropical countries.
- The layout of the bridge control system is improved and more equipment has been added to aid in navigation, for ease of use by our officers, and for additional safety.
- The new vessels are equipped with bow thrusters. They enhance the maneuverability of the vessel, thus improving its docking and undocking time especially during strong winds and current and more importantly it ensures the safety of the vessel during operation.
- For passenger comfort, the design of the comfort room has also been improved.
- Luggage compartments were also added, both in the main and upper deck for ease of transport by the passengers.
- The seating capacity has been increased to 360 from 325 to accommodate more passengers.
- It is certified and compliant with local and international safety standards to ensure the safety of its passengers and the rolling cargo it carries.
- It has a capacity for at least 34 cars, 7 trucks or buses.