Dory 2 handover highlights Austal Vietnam’s growing multi-material construction capabilities and regional steel shipbuilding expertise.
Austal Vietnam has delivered its first aluminium and steel vessel, the 71-metre RoPax cargo ferry Dory 2, to French Polynesia’s Degage Group, marking a milestone in the shipyard’s evolution as a multi-material shipbuilder.
Featuring a steel monohull combined with an aluminium superstructure, Dory 2 demonstrates Austal Vietnam’s expanded construction capabilities and supports Austal’s broader strategy to grow its regional steel shipbuilding expertise.
The vessel was officially handed over during a ceremony at Austal Vietnam’s Vung Tau shipyard on 15 June, following the successful completion of sea trials. The delivery also underscores the long-standing relationship between Austal and the Degage Group.
Designed by Austal Australia, Dory 2 entered construction in 2024 and was launched in March 2026 before completing final testing and acceptance ahead of delivery.
Vice President of Austal Vietnam, Mark Pleiter, said the delivery reflects the evolving technical capability of the shipyard and the dedication, resilience and teamwork of its workforce. “The Austal Vietnam team’s skills, professionalism and work ethics have been key to our success. We remain very grateful to the Degage Group for its ongoing trust in Austal and our capabilities in custom vessel design, construction and sustainment.”
“Looking ahead, we remain committed to further strengthening our capabilities in Vietnam, continuing to deliver high–quality vessels and contributing to the growth of shipbuilding in this region.”
Dory 2 is the seventh ship Austal has delivered to the Degage Group since 2003 and follows the 66–metre Apetahi Express, handed over in 2023.
Degage Group owner and Managing Director, Eugene Degage, said the new vessel is a highly anticipated and welcome addition to the company’s fleet. “We are delighted to welcome Dory 2 into the Degage fleet and congratulate Austal on another successful collaboration. From design to delivery, the construction process has been characterised by Austal’s commitment to excellence and innovation.”
RoPax cargo ferry Dory 2 is purpose-designed for operations between Papeete and the Palliser Islands, French Polynesia. Capable of accommodating up to 140 seated passengers and 17 crew, the unique vessel has a cruising speed of 12 knots and a range of 1,000 nautical miles.
Dory 2 features a 494 square metre cargo deck for containers, palletised freight and vehicles and with a load capacity of 1,400 tonnes, will provide a vital transport and supply chain link between the islands once in service.
