The Xin Ming Zhu 2 high-speed vessel was designed and built by Guangdong Zhongwei Composite Materials Co., Ltd., and completed in August 2024. Its owner is Hong Kong's New Ferry Services Limited. As the first carbon fiber high-speed passenger vessel funded by the Hong Kong SAR Government's "Outlying Islands Ferry Replacement Scheme," it is tasked with replacing aging vessels and enhancing service capacity on outlying island routes. In terms of design, the vessel is an optimized upgrade based on a proven parent model, with a focus on strengthening structural integrity and seaworthiness, enabling safe navigation in wind conditions up to Beaufort scale 8.
The Xin Ming Zhu 2 has an overall length of 44.75 meters, a beam of 11 meters, and a depth of 3.65 meters, with a maximum passenger capacity of 500. Classified by the China Classification Society (CCS), the vessel is constructed using advanced carbon fiber composite materials. Compared to traditional materials, the total weight of the vessel is significantly reduced, combining lightweight properties with high strength. Its endurance is supported by auxiliary power from lithium battery packs and a solar energy storage system, which effectively reduces fuel consumption during docking and further optimizes energy efficiency.
The vessel's layout prioritizes passenger comfort and safety. The cabin area is divided into two decks with a total of 500 spacious seats, all ergonomically designed for comfort and optimal visibility. To accommodate special needs, the vessel is equipped with 12 pet-friendly seats (featuring independent ventilation systems), 6 wheelchair spaces, and 6 baby care seats. Designated luggage storage areas are available at both the bow and stern for passenger convenience. Additional facilities include accessible restrooms and a dedicated crew rest area.
For propulsion, the Xin Ming Zhu 2 is powered by two MTU16V2000 M72 main engines, each rated at 1,440 kW, coupled with two KaMeWa S71-4 waterjets. It maintains an economical service speed of 29.5 knots (approximately 54.6 km/h). The integration of lithium battery packs and solar panels enables self-sufficient power supply during docking, enhancing environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.
The comprehensive use of carbon fiber composite materials reduces the vessel's weight by 30-40% compared to conventional construction, while significantly improving corrosion resistance and fatigue performance. This results in substantially lower maintenance costs. Through the combination of new energy power systems and lightweight design, fuel efficiency is improved by nearly 40%, with a corresponding significant reduction in carbon emissions. Notably, Zhongwei Company has achieved independent mastery of carbon fiber hull vacuum forming technology, breaking foreign monopolies and strongly advancing the domestic supply chain.
The deployment of the Xin Ming Zhu 2 not only provides Hong Kong residents with a more efficient and eco-friendly transportation option but also serves as an important reference for global carbon fiber vessel technology application and the development of green shipping.
