Austal USA (Mobile, AL): Post-WWII Shipbuilding Record

Austal USA, located in Mobile, Alabama, has established itself as a significant player in the U.S. shipbuilding industry in the post-World War II era. Known for producing high-quality commercial and military vessels, the company specializes in advanced catamarans, patrol crafts, and naval ships. Over the past two decades, Austal USA has built a reputation for delivering innovative ship designs, catering to both commercial clients and the U.S. Navy. Below is an overview of key projects that showcase the company’s versatility and technical capabilities.

Key Projects and Features

1. Anapaula & Veronica (Hull #261 and 262)
   • Owner: Otto Candies
   • Ship Type: Crewboats
   • Tonnage: 365 tons each
   • Delivery Date: January 2002
   • Status: Active
   These crewboats were built for Otto Candies and are designed to transport personnel and equipment in the offshore oil and gas industry. Austal’s expertise in building durable, efficient vessels is reflected in the long-term use of these ships.
2. Biscayne Lady (Hull #607)
   • Owner: Island Queen Cruises, Inc.
   • Ship Type: Cruise Boat
   • Tonnage: 568 tons
   • Delivery Date: 2003
   • Status: Active
   The Biscayne Lady, a luxurious cruise vessel, demonstrates Austal USA’s capabilities in the leisure and tourism sector. The ship is still in active service, catering to private charters and sightseeing tours in the Miami area.
3. Cloud Nine (Hull #609)
   • Owner: Cloud Nine, Inc.
   • Ship Type: Cruise Boat
   • Tonnage: 504 tons
   • Delivery Date: May 2003
   • Status: Active
   Another luxury cruise boat, Cloud Nine, is used for private events and high-end charters. Its continued operation further highlights Austal USA’s proficiency in designing vessels for the leisure market.
4. Patriot & Zephyr (Hull #610 and 611)
   • Owner: Circle Line
   • Ship Type: Cruise Boats
   • Tonnage: Patriot (197 tons), Zephyr (600 tons)
   • Price: $7 million each
   • Delivery Date: May 2003 (Patriot), August 2003 (Zephyr)
   • Status: Active
   Both vessels were delivered to Circle Line for sightseeing cruises around New York City. These projects underscore Austal’s role in the urban maritime tourism sector.
5. Lake Express (Hull #614)
   • Owner: Lake Express
   • Ship Type: Ro-Pax Ferry
   • Tonnage: 1,757 tons
   • Price: $19 million
   • Delivery Date: May 2004
   • Status: Active
   Lake Express, the first high-speed ferry to operate across Lake Michigan, highlights Austal USA’s innovation in the ferry market. The ferry is designed for both passenger and vehicle transport, showcasing Austal’s ability to balance comfort and functionality.
6. Hawaii Superferries (Hull #615 and 616)
   • Owner: Hawaii Superferry
   • Ship Type: Ro-Pax Ferries
   • Tonnage: 9,000 tons each
   • Price: $75 million each
   • Delivery Date: March 2007 (Hull #615), March 2009 (Hull #616)
   • Status: Under construction
   These large, high-speed ferries were commissioned for inter-island travel in Hawaii. Despite facing operational challenges, the Hawaii Superferry project remains a notable example of Austal USA’s capability to build large-scale vessels for demanding routes.
7. Independence (LCS 2)
   • Owner: U.S. NavyShip Type: Littoral Combat Ship (LCS)Price: $268 millionDelivery Date: October 2007 (in construction)
   One of the most significant military projects for Austal USA is the construction of the Independence-class Littoral Combat Ships for the U.S. Navy. These ships are designed for operations near coastlines and reflect Austal’s cutting-edge shipbuilding techniques.

Austal USA has built a diverse portfolio, ranging from commercial ferries and cruise boats to sophisticated military ships. The company’s post-WWII shipbuilding record demonstrates its ability to meet the needs of a wide range of clients, from private cruise operators to the U.S. Navy, solidifying its reputation as a leading shipbuilder in the United States.