HONGKONG took delivery of 5.77 per cent of the fast ferries built throughout the world last year, according to Fast Ferry International magazine. China, which has been rapidly improving its transports infrastructure, took 19.23 per cent of them, the highest percentage in the Far East, the magazine said. Indonesia took delivery of 7.69 per cent, Japan, Australia and South Korea each took 3.85 per cent, while Malaysia and French Polynesia took 1.92 per cent each. The remaining 51.92 per cent of the fast ferries were built for service in other parts of the world, it added. Fast Ferry International said last year Asia took delivery of a total of 23 fast ferries, Europe 16 and Americas and elsewhere four each, with only two for Australia and New Zealand. The total delivery of 49 fast ferries world-wide last year only equalled the 1991 and 1989 figures. In 1990, 63 ferries were delivered world-wide and 68 in 1988. The magazine said it was organising the ninth International High-Speed Surface Craft conference and exhibition to be held at the Westin Plaza hotel in Singapore between March 9 and 11 to look at various issues affecting the fast-ferry industry. The organisers said by mid-December 40 companies had reserved places at its exhibition. Speakers at the conference will include Mr J.C. Lewthwaite of JCL High Speed Marine Craft, Prof A. Gany of Technion Israel Institute of Technology, Mr B. Hammel of Kvaerner Fjellstrand (S), Mr R.J. Syms of Australian Maritime College and Mr M. Burgess ofQuicksilver Connections. Other are Mr S.O. Halstensen of Ulstein Propeller, Mr C. Jenman and Mr J. Halligan of Global Maritime, Mr H. Sidler of MAAG Gear, Mr M. Martin of IMTAS, Mr P.A. Weynberg and Mr I.M.C. Campbell of Worlfson Unit, Southampton University. Topics will cover, among others, concept for large, high-speed ferries, high-speed marine propulsion concepts, use of simulation in training for high-speed operation, refurbishment of old hydrofoils for operation and motions of high speed ferries and their affect on passengers and crew. Caterpillar Asia and Solar Turbines Incorporated will give a reception for all delegates aboard the Austal-built, Caterpillar-powered, catamaran Equator Triangle on the second day of the conference.
