Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Sawqrah

Muscat: In a significant maritime development, the Omani ferry operated by the National Ferries Company (NFC) has successfully completed a trial run, docking at Bahman Port on Qeshm Island, Iran. This inaugural voyage, which took place recently from the Port of Khasab, marks a potential new chapter in ferry services between Oman and Iran, as confirmed by Iranian authorities. Baqer Mousavi, director of Qeshm's ports and maritime administration, provided insights into the test trip, noting that the Sawqrah ferry, measuring 52 meters in length and capable of carrying up to 160 passengers, has paved the way for future transportation between the two nations. Notably, on board were several officials from NFC, who were assessing the viability of establishing regular ferry services connecting Khasab and Qeshm, Iran's largest island. The trial has sparked optimism for enhanced passenger and cargo transport between the ports of the two countries. According to the NFC, the Sawqrah is well-equipped for transporting passengers, vehicles, and goods, featuring accommodations for 116 passengers across both business and economy class, in addition to capacity for 22 vehicles and a significant cargo load, including refrigerated containers. The ferry boasts impressive speed capabilities, reaching up to 40 knots per hour. Mousavi emphasized that Bahman Port has been outfitted with upgraded infrastructure and standards necessary for accommodating international passenger vessels. Source: Times of Oman