The high-speed ferry “Queen Beetle,” which connects Hakata Port in Fukuoka and Busan, South Korea, has resumed operations following repairs. The ferry had been out of service since May 30 due to a crack in its hull. On the morning of July 11, the Queen Beetle departed from Hakata Port at 8:50 AM, ten minutes ahead of schedule, with 118 passengers on board out of a possible 502.
The crack was discovered just before the ferry reached Busan on May 30, triggering a warning alarm for water ingress. Upon inspection, a 110-centimeter-long and 1 to 2-millimeter-wide crack was found in the welded section of the hull. JR Kyushu High-Speed Ferry, the operator, attributed the crack to weakened joints from previous repairs, where the heat from welding had compromised the structural integrity.
The Queen Beetle underwent extensive repairs to address the issue, ensuring the safety and reliability of the vessel. The ferry service is crucial for tourism and business travel between Japan and South Korea, providing a fast and convenient connection between the two countries. Source: KBC
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