Planned "Concorde of the seas" will cross Atlantic in under two days

A British marine firm, Maricuda Marine Technology, plans to build a superyacht, a vessel capable of crossing the Atlantic in under two days, without having to refuel. The vessel's developers intend to take the Hales Trophy, a prize given to the ship that makes the fastest Atlantic crossing.

The 80 metre, twin-gas-turbine trimaran, named Atlantic Challenger, will travel at 70 knots, making it commercially desirable as a fast ferry or long-range ocean-going vessel for passengers and cargo. A military version would be modified as needed to perform as an ultra-fast, long-distance, multi-purpose response craft.

The vessel has been dubbed "Concorde of the Seas" and is awaiting funding and construction. David Aitken of Maricuda says, "The Challenger has three unique patentable features which represent a revolutionary stage in the evolution of fast craft design."

Adds Mark Lello, skipper, "There are many fast private boats and many fast commercial passenger ferries that wil travel at 40 knots over short distances. But consider the benefits of moving cargo, crew and passengers swiftly and safely at such speeds. This is an excellent commercial prospect for ferry operator, cruise lines, coastal defence organizations, and wind and oil farm operators."

Maricuda intends to launch the Atlantic Challenger at the 2012 London Olympics.