About 100 people gathered in Hamilton today to officially christen Bermuda’s two newest ferries.

MPs and Cabinet ministers, along with Antoinette Hurtado, the US Consul-General, and staff from the Department of Marine and Ports joined the crowd on the new MV Warbaby Fox for the ceremony.

The vessel arrived on the island with the new MV JL Cecil Smithlast month.

The 39-metre vessels, which replace the ageing ferries of the same names, have three decks, wi-fi and indoor and outdoor seating for up to 550 passengers.

The boats were built by Strategic Marine in Singapore, and Chan Eng Yew, the company’s chief executive, spoke during the event.

He said: “What began as a vision to strengthen Bermuda’s ferry network and improve public transport has become reality through the dedication of many hands and minds over the past months.

“Through this partnership, we have demonstrated what can be achieved through close collaboration and trust, delivering ferries that not only meet, but exceed, expectations and which fully reflects the Government of Bermuda’s forward-looking vision for sustainable and efficient maritime transport.”

Also in attendance was Ewart Brown, former Progressive Labour Party premier and minister, who oversaw the arrival of the island’s first two fast ferries, Serenity and Resolute, in 2002.

Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport, said: “[Serenity and Resolute] and the generations that followed helped redefine public transport in Bermuda, which makes Dr Brown’s presence here today all the more fitting as we unveil the next step in this ongoing evolution.”

The first level of the new vessels features air-conditioning, a central kiosk area, comfortable grey-and-blue seating and television screens.

Passengers can enjoy either indoor AC or the natural breeze on the second level, while the top deck is open-air.

Mr Darrell said: “These ferries are striking vessels — their clean lines, bright interior and wide windows give them a presence that immediately signals progress.

“When they move across the harbour, they will look every bit as modern as they feel inside.”

The minister added that the new ferries were delivered on time and on budget — announced last year as involving a $19.5 million contract — and are more efficient than the ageing vessels they replace.

He said: “These improvements support our environmental goals and create long-term savings for the taxpayer.”

Mr Darrell told The Royal Gazette that the old Warbaby Fox and JL Cecil Smith, which came into service in 2006 and 2007 respectively, will be sold to an overseas broker and that the Government has no plans to replace any of the other fast ferries.

He said: “Those ferries are smaller than these ones, which will have specific uses for trips to Dockyard, Hamilton and St George’s. Those smaller boats are useful when the demand is not as much.”

Mr Yew and Mr Darrell exchanged plaques and gifts before Reverend Wendell Dill led the christening of Warbaby Fox.

Pastor Richard Martin led the blessing and christening of the JL Cecil Smith before the Warbaby Fox cruised to Rockaway and the Great Sound.

Members of the public can enjoy free 45-minute rides aboard the vessels tomorrow.

The boats will depart Hamilton Ferry Terminal every hour from noon until 4pm, and boarding will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

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