Australian digital shipbuilder Incat Crowther supported The Kelsian Group’s launch of a new, iconic 63-metre dinner cruise vessel. Conceived specifically for Sydney Harbour, The Jackson is designed to host up to 700 passengers, and 60 crew, for dinner and cocktail-style events.
The Kelsian Group is Australia’s largest land and marine experience, tourism and public transport service provider. The Jackson is the twelfth Incat Crowther vessel procured by Kelsian and its subsidiary companies, including Sealink and Captain Cook Cruises.
The functional arrangement and unique exterior design were conceived by Kelsian Group’s Groups General Manager of Business Development Marine and Tourism, Anthony Haworth.
“My vision was to create an on-water, high-level fine dining venue and experience that rivals any venue in Sydney. Recognizing that it would be a huge undertaking to bring this vision to life, we called on our long-term partner in Incat Crowther,” said Mr Haworth.
“Incat Crowther’s approach to shipbuilding meant our teams worked side by side from the design phase, through to construction and the launch of The Jackson. I am absolutely delighted with The Jackson and credit the team at Incat Crowther for their professionalism, innovative approach and collaboration throughout the project.”
The steel hull and aluminium superstructure of The Jackson have been engineered to navigate the environmentally sensitive waters of Sydney Harbour while providing guests with an iconic experience. The Jackson’s design balances the requirements of functional vessel systems with distinctive design aspects, such as pillarless accommodation spaces with high ceilings that allow for swooping window lines.
The design also incorporates a unique multi-level galley configuration that allows The Jackson to offer a fine-dining experience. The bespoke main galley incorporates high-level commercial equipment, five tailored storage areas and integrated operating systems such as drainage, water, electricity and communications.
Incat Crowther Technical Director, Dr Andrew Tuite, praised The Kelsian Group for their vision and explained some of the design challenges that had to be overcome during the shipbuilding process.
“The Jackson is a truly unique dinner cruise vessel and there is nothing else quite like it sailing on Sydney Harbour right now. Our tailored approach to shipbuilding meant we were able to sit down with Anthony and his team at The Kelsian Group, listen to their design vision and what they hoped to achieve, and then collaborate on the digital shipbuilding process,” said Dr Tuite.
“We were challenged to use our deep knowledge of the regulatory framework to resolve many technical considerations without compromising the vessel's functionality and aesthetics as prescribed by Mr. Haworth.”
“We also worked closely with our propulsion suppliers to ensure The Jackson is highly agile and maneuverable in the busy Sydney Harbour operating environment. This multi-directional propulsion was a key requirement of the design.
Our proven and innovative digital shipbuilding process enabled our team of engineers to balance the need for functionality, safety and efficiency with The Kelsian Group’s vision. I believe that by working together we were able to create something truly unique,” said Dr Tuite.