Circa Marine is proud to play a central role in a groundbreaking project: building five 9.5m all-aluminium, 100% electric catamarans — a first for both Circa and Samoa’s inter-island transport sector. Designed and built in New Zealand, this initiative highlights Circa’s expertise in delivering innovative marine solutions for a sustainable future.
Designed by LOMOcean Marine Design Ltd, one of New Zealand’s leading naval architecture firms, renowned for their pioneering work in efficient and functional vessel design. Their collaboration with Circa ensures each catamaran is optimised for performance, safety, and environmental stewardship. Crafted from high-grade aluminium for lightweight strength and durability, these 9.5m catamarans are purpose-built for commercial inter-island use. Fully electric, they feature cutting-edge solar panels and shore power charging systems, delivering silent, emissions-free performance with optimal efficiency.
In partnership with McKay Electrical, who lead the project, they are delivering a low-carbon fleet that redefines sustainable maritime transport through Kiwi craftsmanship. All five catamarans are CNC cut at Circa Marine’s Whangarei facility, ensuring precision and quality from the outset. Boat number one is already fully completed by their skilled team. Boats two through five are being prefabricated by Circa Marine, before being shipped to Samoa for final assembly at Henry Silva Shipyards Ltd. Their staff will work alongside Samoan tradespeople, providing hands-on training and knowledge transfer to uphold their high build standards while fostering local expertise.
Bound for Samoa, this fleet is set to drive economic growth, improve transport connectivity, and promote environmental sustainability across the South Pacific. It’s a milestone not only for Samoa but also for New Zealand marine innovation. “We’re thrilled to bring Samoa’s first low-carbon fleet to life – from Kiwi shores to Pacific waters.
