User:Wexcan/Drafts/HSS 1500

HSS 1500 is the name of a class of high-speed craft originally ordered and operated by Stena Line on European international ferry routes. The vessels are the largest high-speed craft in the world.

Three vessels were ultimately completed in 1996 and 1997. The vessels were built to operate around the British Isles.

Design and construction
Stena Explorer was constructed by Finnyards in Rauma, Finland. The first of the class, HSS Stena Explorer, entered service in 1996.

The HSS 1500 is a catamaran, and was designed with the aim of providing a comfortable and fast service.

Power is provided by four GE Aviation gas turbines in a twin COGAG configuration. The vessels employ four Kamewa waterjets for propulsion.

The HSS class of ferries were designed to allow quick turnarounds at port. A specially designed linkspan provides ropeless mooring and allows quick loading, unloading and servicing. Vehicles are loaded via two of the four stern doors and park in a "U" configuration. When disembarking, vehicles drive straight off via the other two doors.

Ships

 * HSS Stena Explorer
 * HSS Stena Voyager
 * HSS Discovery