On Friday 1 October, the starting sign was given for the construction of two electric ferries for the Riveer ferry service. Aldermen Joost van der Geest, Hans Tanis and Theo Boerman from Gorinchem, Altena and Hardinxveld-Giessendam symbolically signed the contract with Holland Shipyards Group.
This November, Holland Shipyards Group will start building the emission-free ferries which have been designed by Coco Yachts, a Gorinchem-based shipdesigner. The new all electric, aluminium ferries will measure 35,30 m by 7,30 m and have a carrying capacity of 100 passengers and 100 cyclists.
During the tender process Holland Shipyards Group suggested a technical upgrade by increasing the battery capacity and amending ship propellers. With this upgrade the ferries will be able to sail with a higher speed, resulting in Riveer to expand the sailing route for the new ferries.
“The fact that these ferries will soon be sailing in front of our own door makes it a great eye-catcher and a great company reference ," says Leendert Hoogendoorn, director.
The vessels are expected to be delivered at the end of 2022.
