CityCat will soon be welcoming its new member, a double-decker catamaran, to service Hamilton and the rest of the CityCat network.
Brisbane City Council announced that the much-awaited new double-decker vessel, the CityCat 22, is due to arrive in late 2019, to add more river travel options to CityCat customers. The upcoming CityCat 22 will operate under the existing contract with Transdev Brisbane Ferries.
The Council’s plan to construct the fourth-generation high-speed catamaran, costing about $3.7 million, was first announced in 2018. The next-generation CityCat promises to deliver world-class public transport along the Brisbane River, and not to mention, offer scenic views straight from the rooftop.
“CityCat 22 represents the evolution of river travel and enhances the passenger experience,” the Council announcement said.
The Council also plans to add six more NextGen vessels to the current fleet as part of its plan to deliver modern public transport network. The contract to build CityCat 22 has already been awarded and construction is expected to be completed in late 2019.
The new CityCat 22 vessel will be able to carry a total of 170 passengers. The upper deck will provide seating for 16 passengers and will be accessible via rear stairs
There will be rear deck seating for 16 passengers and space for up to six bikes. The open front deck, on the other hand, will offer a clear viewing pane below the handrail.
Subject to final design, the vessel will also have up to 6 dedicated wheelchair and mobility scooter areas. Lower windows in sections of the main cabin will also allow passengers in mobility devices and children to enjoy the view.
Lastly, there will be a table and lounge seating options including USB device charging ports, as well as hearing augmentation loops.
The Council currently operates a fleet of 21 CityCats, along with nine monohull ferries, within a network of 25 terminals from Northshore Hamilton to St Lucia.