CityCat’s new double-decker water trials have commenced. CityCat 22 will undergo testing over the next few weeks, before its official launch in November 2019.
The Aus Ships built double-decker was moved from the warehouse and has hit the waters on 23 October. It will cruise the Brisbane River for weeks of testing.
The first of the seven new CityCat vessels to be delivered over the next four years, CityCat 22 cost $3.7 million to build. Billed as Brisbane’s most modern CityCat, the next generation vessel will join the current fleet next month.
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.
The new CityCat 22 vessel will be able to carry a total of 170 passengers. The upper deck is accessible via rear stairs and will provide seating for 16 passengers..
Video Credit: Brisbane Development / YouTube
The rear deck seating provides seating for 16 passengers and space for up to ten bikes. The open front deck, on the other hand, offers a clear viewing panel below the handrail.
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.
There will be a table and lounge seating options including USB device charging ports, free Wi-Fi, as well as hearing augmentation loops.
The ferry masters and crew will undergo onboard training for 20 days before the new double-decker gets launched for service. The new CityCat will operate under the existing contract with Transdev Brisbane Ferries.
