ARCHIPELAGO Philippine Ferries Corporation, the brand owner of FastCat, welcomed the arrival of two more brand-new vessels (FCM19 & FCM20) on May 18, 2021. This is part of the company’s goal of having a fleet of 30 vessels by 2031.
The said vessels are slated to traverse the routes of Bulalacao-Coron and Zamboanga-Basilan as part of its expansion program to serve the needs of the traveling public and business entities nationwide through its passenger and rolling cargo services.
FastCat has already connected Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao through its major island pairs such as: Batangas-Calapan, Bulalacao-Caticlan (with weekly special trips via Caluya, Municipality of Antique), Iloilo-Bacolod, Dumaguete-Dapitan, San Carlos-Toledo, Cebu-Tubigon, Matnog-Dapdap, Matnog-San Isidro, and Liloan-Lipata.
The improved features of FCM19 and FCM20 are as follows:
- The passenger seating capacity was increased from 354 to 384.
- The under deck structural design was reinforced to carry more heavy trucks.
- Additional lanes were added to accommodate at least 10 trucks or minibuses instead of just seven.
- The vessels are equipped with two bow thrusters instead of one for easier and faster maneuvering and to ensure safe docking and undocking of the vessel.
- Two units of Anchor windlass were installed to give the master an option on which side to use in any given situation.
- A class-approved PVC pipe was used for the chill water cooling and drain system which is corrosion-free, durable, and requires less maintenance.
- The wave-piercing design of the hull was improved to reduce vessel mechanical stress and for a smoother ride.
- The internal and external lighting structure were improved for safety, security and unique aesthetic effect.
- A wider passage walkway was installed at the port side for safer embarkation and disembarkation of passengers.
Furthermore, the company works endlessly to transport essential goods, front liners, and authorized passengers to help keep the economy afloat and towards the fulfillment of its brand promise of a FerrySafe, FerryFast, and FerryConvenient travel experience./PN
