All American Marine (AAM) is pleased to announce it is currently constructing  a sister ship to the highly successful Chugach Express for Phillips Cruises & Tours. Building on the proven performance of the Chugach Express, the new high-speed, long-range eco-tour vessel will operate daily in Prince William Sound and be homeported in Whittier, Alaska.  Developed by Nic de Waal of Teknicraft Design, this 84.5’ x 30.7’ aluminum passenger vessel features a next-generation semi-displacement catamaran hull with proven, real-world performance.

Equipped with a propulsion package comprised of four MJP 350X Waterjets, powered by quad Scania DI16 082M engines, each rated at 800 mhp, this new vessel is being built around achieving optimal performance and reliability for years to come. The vessel integrates Teknicraft’s proprietary, dynamic aluminum hydrofoil system—an industry-leading technology that enhances stability, reduces drag, and delivers superior performance at speed, to support extended, high-demand daily operations. Constructed to US Coast Guard (USCG) Subchapter T classification standards, this sister ship will feature a 1600-gallon fuel capacity, facilitating fuel-efficient and extended daily operations. Optimized for efficiency, ride comfort, and reliability in Alaska’s demanding operating environment, its design incorporates a dynamic aluminum hydrofoil, enhancing speed and efficiency at high speeds.

With a capacity of up to 150 passengers, the vessel will further expand Phillips Cruises & Tours’ ability to deliver world-class sightseeing experiences in Prince William Sound. Building directly on the proven design and performance of the Chugach Express, the sister ship will offer the same high level of comfort, speed, and reliability guests have come to expect, while supporting efficient, high-tempo daily operations throughout the season.

“After seeing how the Chugach Express performs in real-world service, moving forward with a sister ship felt like a very natural next step,” said Casey Neumann, Managing Partner of Phillips Cruises & Tours. “The vessel has truly exceeded our expectations, from ride quality and speed to fuel efficiency and the overall guest experience. Working with All American Marine and Teknicraft has been seamless, and we’re excited to add another vessel of this caliber to our fleet.”

Chugach Express – Delivered in 2025

The sister ship will incorporate Teknicraft Design’s signature hull geometry, including its wave-piercing bow and patented hydrofoil-assisted catamaran design. Engineered to reduce drag and soften the ride, the hull form is designed to minimize wake wash while improving fuel economy and passenger comfort—particularly in the variable sea conditions common to Prince William Sound. The integrated hydrofoil system reduces power demand at service speed, allowing for lower fuel consumption, reduced operating costs, and improved performance when fully loaded.

“At All American Marine, we take great pride in building vessels that operators consistently choose time and again,” said Ron Wille, President & COO of All American Marine. “The success of the Chugach Express is a direct result of close collaboration, proven Teknicraft hull technology, and a propulsion package that delivers both performance and efficiency. We’re proud to continue our partnership with Phillips Cruises & Tours by delivering a sister ship that builds on that success and supports their operation for years to come.”

Designed with passenger comfort in mind, the vessel will feature spacious, fully enclosed seating across two decks, large viewing windows, and ample exterior areas for wildlife viewing. Interior amenities include premium seating, tables, and modern conveniences throughout, while full accessibility on the main deck ensures a welcoming experience for all passengers. Together, these features reinforce Phillips Cruises & Tours’ commitment to delivering safe, comfortable, and memorable experiences in one of Alaska’s most iconic cruising destinations.

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