The Chilkat Express is a 61'x22' Teknicraft catamaran run by Chilkat Cruises & Tours for tourist excursions between Skagway, Alaska, and Glacier Point. With a top speed of 49.8 knots, this boat quickly shuttles up to 63 passengers on its 40-minute one-way journey, many from the cruise ships that regularly stop in Skagway.

Efficiency: Known as the fastest boat of its kind in the region, the Chilkat Express could also be called one of the most efficient. Its main foil between the hulls, two stern trim foils, wedge-shaped bow wave piercer, and chines all work in concert to provide lift and cushion shock when moving through the troughs, reducing drag and increasing fuel efficiency and speed. Indeed, when it is on step it drafts only 4-8 inches of water.

Power: Its four Caterpillar 3406 diesel engines (each providing 800 horsepower at 2400 rpm), installed offset and in tandem in the 91" hulls, consume 120 gallons of fuel per hour when powering its four Hamilton HJ362 waterjets. An Onan 13.5kw auxiliary engine runs the two cylindrical 220-volt fans to cool the engine compartments, increasing performance.

Implementing the Teknicraft Design: "We're excited not only to have such a close relationship with Teknicraft, but also to have such a top-notch crew here-the craftsmen, fabricators, welders, and systems and interior specialists-to carry out their exact designs," said Matt Mullett, CEO of All American Marine. "Together we're able to provide some of the best boats for the money."