The Aqualink, built by Kvichak Marine Industries (of Fremont) and designed by Incat Crowther (of Australia), has been in operation by Long Beach Transit (of California) since 2001. The catamaran shuttles visitors and commuters between the Long Beach waterfront and Alamitos Bay Landing. The reliability of the craft and the success of the water taxi program has resulted in a request by Long Beach Transit for Kvichak to build a second boat.
Aqualink II, an all-aluminum, 65’ x 24’ fully-enclosed catamaran, is currently under construction. The 74-passenger, air-conditioned vessel will operate at a service speed of ~25 knots using a crew of two. During travel, passengers will be able to enjoy food and beverage service at the snack bar kiosk integrated in the main passenger cabin, and outfitted by Kvichak with a refrigerator, coffee brewing system, soft drink dispenser, sink, and Corian bar top.
Delivery is scheduled for May 2011. For more information, contact Kvichak at 469 N.W. Bowdoin, or by phone at 206/545-8485 or e-mail.