"Shinas" Arrives in Oman

The Sultanate of Oman‘s record-breaking 65 metre vehicle-passenger catamaran “Shinas” has arrived in Muscat, Oman following its 15-day journey from Austal’s shipyard in Henderson, Western Australia.

The vessel’s arrival was a proud moment for the Austal team, who have successfully delivered to Oman a world-class vessel which will set new marine transport standards for the region.

The vessel made the journey under its own power, making scheduled stops at the Cocos Islands and Mal’e in the Maldives.

“Shinas” is the world’s fastest diesel-powered vehicle passenger ferry after achieving a record service speed of 52 knots and a maximum speed of 55.9 knots (103.5 km/h) during sea trials last November.

Its recently launched sister vessel “Hormuz” is scheduled to repeat the delivery voyage later this year.

Once delivered, the two high-speed catamarans will provide a new tourism service to Oman’s spectacular Musandam Peninsular and will be the flagship in the Sultanate of Oman’s expanded marine transport network.

As well as having a service speed of over 50 knots, the ferries carry 208 passengers and 56 cars along an intended 180 nautical mile route. Passengers will experience unparalleled comfort across three classes – Tourist Class, First Class and VIP.