Austal : Vietnam launches 71-metre RORO passenger cargo vessel - Dory 2

About this update from Austal Limited

Austal Vietnam has successfully launched Hull 426, "Dory 2" , a 71-metre roll-on/roll-off (RORO) passenger cargo vessel for The Degage Group of French Polynesia, marking another important milestone in Austal's expanding global steel shipbuilding capability. Featuring a steel monohull and aluminium superstructure , Dory 2 has been purpose-designed for inter-island operations and will accommodate up to 140 passengers and 17 crew . The vessel includes a 494 square metre cargo deck , capable of transporting containers, palletised freight and vehicles, providing a highly flexible logistics solution for the region. With a cruising speed of 12 knots and a range of 1,000 nautical miles , Dory 2 is optimised for reliable, efficient service between Papeete and the Palliser Islands , supporting essential transport and supply chain connectivity across French Polynesia. Austal Vietnam Vice President Mark Pleiter congratulated the team on the successful launch, saying: "This is a proud moment for our team in Vietnam and a testament to the hard work, skill and dedication shown throughout the build so far. Successfully launching Dory 2 reflects the growing capability of our shipyard and the strength of our partnership with The Degage Group." The project highlights Austal Vietnam's evolution as a multi-material shipbuilder, with the yard now delivering both aluminium and increasingly complex steel vessels . This progression reflects the strength, flexibility and growing expertise of Austal's global shipbuilding network. Dory 2 also reinforces Austal's strategic focus on expanding its steel shipbuilding capability into key growth markets, including: Next-Generation ROPAX - low-carbon 50-120 metre vessels integrating electric and hydrogen propulsion systems to support the maritime energy transition. Offshore Energy - Offshore Support Vessels (OSVs) and Service Operation Vessels (SOVs) engineered for evolving offshore wind and energy sector requirements. Sustainable Sailing Cargo - combining traditional wind-assist technologies with modern steel construction to deliver high-capacity, eco-friendly cargo vessels. The Degage Group is a long-standing Austal customer, and this latest project builds on a strong partnership that has seen Austal design and construct multiple vessels for their fleet, including cruise ships and high-speed ferries such as the 66 metre Apetahi Express , delivered in 2023. Upon completion, Dory 2 will undergo final outfitting, harbour and sea trials ahead of delivery to The Degage Group, where it will play a vital role in supporting sustainable and efficient inter-island transport operations. Austal Vietnam team with Dory 2 prior to launch in Vung Tau (Image: Austal Vietnam) All images: Austal Vietnam

View stock analysis, news, and events for Austal Limited