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.
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