Ferry Division christens two new ferries in Craven County

HAVELOCK, N.C. (WITN) -Residents can now enjoy two new and improved ferries, Avon and Salvo, on the Cherry Branch-Minnesott Beach route, courtesy of the North Carolina Ferry System.

The Avon and Salvo are replacing the two smaller and older Hatteras-class ferries known as Roanoke and Kinnakeet, which have been in service since the early 1990s. According to one ferry engineering supervisor, the new additions are quite different.

It’s what’s beneath the deck that truly shows the upgrades of the two vessels which is what’s been needed says Ferry Division Director Jed Dixon.

“They’re replacing aging vessels in the fleet so we’re just so excited to put these vessels in service. They have more capacity than our previous vessels and have all the modern technology and we’re just thrilled to put them in service now,” says Dixon.

A ferry engineering supervisor says the new vessels are diesel-electric which is new for the ferry division and means that the engines are electric and powered by three diesel generators.

These changes will provide a quieter and smoother ride for travelers, along with an influx of sensors around the vessel that will provide operators with more information about the vessel while in service.

The new vessels are also equipped to carry heavier vehicles and can carry up to 36 per trip.

One traveler believes the ferry upgrade will greatly benefit residents and encourages people to take advantage of it.

“I love it, I think it’s a sign of where things are going as opposed to where things were and more people are moving in from different areas and they want better technology for the ferry service,”

The christening ceremony was celebrated with officials from the NCDOT. The colors were presented by the United States Coast Honor Guards, and an invocation was given by St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.