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Posted by Dale Crisp
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31 Jul, 2026
INCAT HAS SUCCESSFULLY completed one of the most complex maritime operations ever undertaken in Tasmania, with Hull 096 now loaded aboard the heavylift vessel Black Marlin ahead of its voyage to South America.
The carefully-coordinated loading operation on the River Derwent saw the semi-submersible heavylift vessel ballast down in a deep part of the river before Hull 096 [China Zorrilla] was manoeuvred into position above the submerged cargo deck.
Black Marlin then began the refloating process, which gradually lifted Hull 096 clear of the water ahead of final sea fastening.
The operation was delayed 24 hours to today [31 July] by unfavourable weather conditions.
The successful loading represents years of planning, design, engineering and construction at Incat’s Hobart shipyard and is another major moment in a project that has attracted worldwide attention for redefining the future of large-scale sustainable shipping, the company said.
Incat chair Robert Clifford said seeing Hull 096 loaded onto Black Marlin was a proud moment for everyone involved in the project.
"This is an extraordinary moment, not just for Incat, but for the future of sustainable maritime transport," Mr Clifford said.
"For years we've watched this vessel evolve from an idea into reality, and today we've reached another incredible milestone in the most significant project in Incat’s history.”
Mr Clifford said Hull 096 had challenged convention at every stage.
“It represents the ingenuity, determination and craftsmanship of hundreds of people who believed we could redefine what was possible," he said.
"To see her safely aboard Black Marlin and getting ready to leave Tasmania is a very special moment for the Incat workforce.”
Mr Clifford said Hull 096 had attracted worldwide attention throughout its construction, reflecting the growing demand for large-scale sustainable ferry technology.
"This vessel has captured international attention because it demonstrates that the future of high-speed, large-capacity ferry transport is here today.
"We are incredibly proud that this technology has been designed and built in Tasmania and that it will soon be operating on one of the world's busiest ferry routes."
Hull 096 will now remain aboard Black Marlin while final sea fastening and operational preparations are completed ahead of the heavy lift vessel’s departure from Hobart in the coming days.
Following the voyage to South America, the vessel will be offloaded before final commissioning and entry into service with Buquebus, crossing the River Plate between Uruguay and Argentina.
