Commissioning of The A.P.T. James

The A.P.T. James is here and ready to serve.

The high-speed catamaran can accommodate 926 passengers and 250 cars. Travelling at speeds up to 37.5 knots it is expected to make the inter-island trip in approximately 3 hours.

The custom-built vessel features the very latest in Australia’s ‘smart ship’ technology, including an advanced Motion Control System to deliver a more comfortable and stable ride for passengers and crew.

Prime Minister Dr the Hon Keith Rowley officially commissioned the vessel at the Port of Scarborough, Tobago today (Thursday 21st January, 2021). Dr Rowley was on hand to welcome the ferry as it made its maiden journey from Trinidad to Tobago.

In his feature address, the Prime Minister said “this is a time of rejoicing for the people of Trinidad and Tobago”. He said this new vessel is a major national investment and will positively contribute to the country’s economic development.

The Prime Minister urged all citizens to be responsible and care for the vessel saying those who do not are “enemies of Trinidad and Tobago.”Dr Rowley said he was proud to name the vessel after a Tobagonian politician and visionary. He said, “every time the vessel pulls up … it is my wish that every child in Tobago will know A.P.T James … what he stood for and his vision for Tobago.”

Also delivering remarks at today’s event was Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly, the Hon Ancil Dennis. Mr Dennis thanked the Prime Minister and the Government for the new vessel and said that this development will allow for the growth of Tobago’s economy, specifically, the possibility of Tobago being a source of food for Trinidad.

Among those making the maiden voyage on the vessel were Minister of Works and Transport, Senator the Honourable Rohan Sinanan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Senator the Hon Randall Mitchell, Minister of Youth Development and National Service, the Hon. Fitzgerald Hinds, Minister of Public Administration and Digital Transformation, Senator the Hon Allyson West, and Chairman of the National Infrastructure Development Company Limited (NIDCO), Herbert George. Family members of the late A.P.T. James were also present at today’s event.