JUNE 3, 2013 — The world's first dual fuel fast RO/RO ferry, Lopez Mena (Incat hull 069), has begun sea trials in Hobart, Tasmania. The 99 m vessel's twin LNG tanks were loaded with LNG for the first time last week.

Testing of the gas system is underway, with the GE LM2500 gas turbine engines being run on gas for the first time on Thursday, May 27 at the wharf, and at sea on Saturday, May 30. The gas trials will continue later this week.

Lopez Mena was sea trialled with ballast for a 1460 tonne displacement trial comfortably exceeding 50 knots at full power and maintaining a steady 49 knots at 90% power while operating on marine distillate.

The vessel, with capacity for 1,000 persons and 150 cars, incorporates a luxurious fit out including a 1,100 sq.m duty free shop.

Lopez Mena has been constructed for Incat customer Buquebus for operation on the River Plate between Argentina and Uruguay. She will be the world's first dual fuel fast RO/RO ferry to use LNG as the primary fuel.