#ICGbuyFerry - Irish Continental Group (ICG), parent company of Irish Ferries has agreed a deal to buy a high-speed vessel known as the “Westpac Express” for $13.25 million.

The Irish Times reports that ICG expects to take ownership of the fast-ferry from current owner Bali Westpac by late May.

Upon delivery, the vessel is to be bareboat chartered to the company Sealift for a firm period of four months with four further one year option periods and a final seven month option at the charterer’s option.

The Westpac Express was built in 2001 by Austal Ships. It has a gross tonnage of 8,403 tonne, passenger capacity of 900 and a car carrying capacity of 182 units.