Conrad gets contract to build ferries bound for Puerto Rico

Conrad Shipyard has been awarded a contract to build four cargo and passenger ferries headed for Puerto Rico.

Conrad announced the awarding of the contract by the Puerto Rico Maritime Transit Authority.

The ferries are designed to carry 300 passengers and 300 short tons of cargo. They will operate between the municipality of Ceiba and the municipality islands of Vieques and Culebra in Puerto Rico.

Conrad expects to deliver the first ferry to San Juan in late 2024.

The passenger amenities incorporated into the ferries were designed with comfort and convenience in mind, the company said, enhancing the overall experience for those traveling between Puerto Rico’s ports.

“We are honored to have been selected by the Puerto Rico Maritime Transit Authority for this important project,” said Johnny Conrad, chairman and CEO of Conrad Shipyard. “This contract supports our commitment to delivering quality vessels that prioritize safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort. We look forward to partnering with the Puerto Rico Maritime Transit Authority once again to deliver these vessels.”

Conrad previously built and delivered two ferries to the authority. They are still operating in and around Puerto Rico.

“We are excited to work alongside Conrad Shipyard on this project,” said Josué Menendez Agosto, executive director of the authority. “These new ferries will play a vital role in improving connectivity across our region and facilitating the movement of both passengers and vehicles to and from the Island Municipalities.

“These new vessels will provide the much-needed resiliency that the residents from the island municipalities of Vieques and Culebra need during normal operations and under emergency situations. Based on our past relationship, we are confident that Conrad Shipyard’s dedication to excellence will result in vessels
that exceed our expectations.”