Xin Ming Zhu III is currently the largest carbon fiber vessel in China in terms of passenger capacity. Photo: Science and Technology Daily

Xin Ming Zhu III, a high-speed carbon fiber passenger ferry with a seating capacity of 500, has been officially delivered in Hong Kong on Tuesday, making it a milestone in China's maritime innovation. The ferry is currently the largest carbon fiber vessel in China in terms of passenger capacity, according to the Science and Technology Daily.

This vessel is a carbon fiber, conventionally powered, high-speed passenger ferry featuring an advanced lightweight design, measuring 44.75 meters in length and 11 meters in width.

It has set a benchmark for sustainable and eco-friendly advancements in the maritime transport sector of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Carbon fiber materials provide superior advantages compared with metals such as lighter weight and corrosion resistance. Different from traditional ships, the carbon fiber vessel produces lower noise during operation, further saves fuel, reduces maintenance costs, and delivers substantial environmental benefits through reduced emissions and a lower carbon footprint.

Building upon a mature mother ship design, the vessel was optimized and upgraded to suit the characteristics of Hong Kong's outlying island routes. These improvements effectively enhance the structural strength, ensuring the vessel can withstand diverse operational conditions.

In addition, the ship offers enhanced navigability and operability, allowing it to safely operate in winds up to force 8. 

It is also equipped with lithium battery packs and solar energy storage panels, ensuring the operation of essential electrical systems when docked, significantly cutting fuel consumption and emissions.

On November 4, the vessel had its maiden launch in Nansha, Guangzhou, South China's Guangdong Province, reinforcing its role as a key player in Hong Kong's maritime network, according to Science and Technology Daily. 

The vessel is the eighth in a series of 11 ships under the Hong Kong Outlying Islands project, commissioned to Guangzhou Shipbuilding Industry Corp, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation, for passenger transport in Hong Kong waters.

Passenger ferries play a crucial role in transportation for residents and tourists in Hong Kong. Taking Cheung Chau as an example, over 30,000 residents rely on ferries to travel to and from the island. The daily passenger volume on the Central-Cheung Chau route can reach up to 70,000 people during events. The ferries operated by Hong Kong Sun Ferry Company serve approximately 12 million passengers annually, reported the Nanfang Daily.