Incat Crowther has been selected by South Korean shipbuilder Kangnam Corporation to design a new 80-metre high-speed catamaran ro-pax ferry for Korea Express Ferry (KEF). The vessel will operate between Incheon Metropolitan City and the Yellow Sea islands of Daecheongdo, Baengnyeongdo and Socheongdo in Ongjin County.

The contract brings together Incat Crowther, Kangnam and KEF once again following their earlier work on Korea Pride, a 72-metre passenger ferry that has been in service with KEF from Incheon City since 2022.

According to the company, KEF was chosen to replace the ageing ro-pax service on these routes. The new ferry will have a vehicle deck with capacity for up to 60 cars or 50 utility trucks.

The vessel is designed to carry as many as 572 passengers and 12 crew at speeds of up to 45 knots. It will feature twin pedestrian access ramps to provide step-free entry to the passenger deck, together with a bespoke stern ramp for vehicle access.

The propulsion arrangement will use six MTU M05-rated engines together with waterjets and gearboxes. Incat Crowther explained that the vessel's propulsion system would provide greater redundancy, reliability and manoeuvrability while achieving higher power-to-weight ratios and lower fuel consumption.

Dan Mace, Technical Manager at Incat Crowther, added: “We're pleased to be partnering once again with Kangnam Corporation and Korea Express Ferry to deliver an enhanced vessel for these vital island routes. This project is a great example of how Incat Crowther can utilise our global experience and capabilities to support the delivery of a bespoke, locally built passenger ferry. The new vessel offers a reliable six-engine drivetrain of MTU M05-rated engines, combined with an off-the-shelf configuration of waterjets and gearboxes for ease of installation and maintenance. Operational efficiency is enhanced with a wide turning circle for loading and unloading of cars. We are committed to supporting Kangnam to ensure this important sovereign build delivers for local communities.”

Sung Man Hwang, C.E.O. of Korea Express Ferry, commented: “The addition of this new vessel to our fleet represents a significant investment in connecting Ongjin County communities with Incheon City. The enhanced vehicle capacity will provide crucial support for local businesses and residents, while the vessel will ensure reliable, comfortable service for years to come. We have great confidence in our partnership with Incat Crowther and Kangnam Corporation and look forward to seeing this vessel enter service on these crucial routes.”

Construction is due to begin in the second half of 2026, with delivery scheduled for 2028.