JR Kyushu Jet Ferry Inc. have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with an Australian shipbuilding company. JR Kyushu operates a high speed ferry service between Fukuoka and Busan. The company plans to acquire a new ship by 2020 to fend off competition from budget airline carriers and entice Asian tourists to use their services. The new ferry is expected to be 80 meters in length and fit approximately 500 people on board, which is more than double the capacity of their current ships. Plans are in place to create a ship that will be more stable on the water so passengers can move around freely and not have to wear seat belts during the journey. A proposal was also put forward for an on-board duty-free shop and viewing deck. Renowned industrial designer Eiji Mitooka is expected to be involved in the project. JR Kyushu hopes to close the deal by February and have the new ferry in service before the start of the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games. Source: Sankei Shimbun, 12/10/2017
Photo: JR Kyushu
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