Fincantieri to build ferry to connect Sicily and Lampedusa

(ANSA) - ROME, OCT 9 - Fincantieri said Monday that it has signed an agreement to build a ferry for the Sicilian regional government to connect mainland Sicily with the islands of Lampedusa, Linosa and Pantelleria.
    Lampedusa has been at the centre of international attention recently due to a big rise in the number of migrant boats landing on Italy's southernmost island.
    It is also a popular tourist destination.
    The ferry will cost 120 million euros, it will be built in Palermo and is set to be delivered in 2026.
    "Today is an important day, with Fincantieri bringing ferry production back to Italy," Fincantieri CEO Pieroberto Folgiero told a joint press conference with Sicilian Governor Renato Schifani.
    "It is a great return to Italy, distinguished by innovation".
    The region will lease the ferry out to a private contractor.
    The 140-metre long ferry will have a maximum speed of 19 knots and will be able to carry up to 1,000 people and 200 cars.
    (ANSA).