South Shields–based Solar Solve Marine recently supplied a specialist consignment of window shading systems for a newly constructed 40-metre carbon fibre catamaran named Jin Zhu Hu. The vessel was built at the Brødrene Aa shipyard in Hyen, Norway and is the first of two fast ferries ordered by Guangzhou Liuanshan Port Passenger Transport Co. Ltd, Hong Kong.
For the navigation bridge, Solar Solve supplied SOLASAFE anti-glare roller blinds alongside CASSLITE blackout fabric blinds to support safe navigation and operational comfort. In addition, DIMMLITE fabric roller blinds were installed throughout the passenger areas to enhance onboard comfort during daytime operations. A similar supply package was also delivered for the vessel’s sister ship.
Advanced Performance Meets Passenger Comfort
Jin Zhu Hu is powered by twin MTU 16V2000 M72 engines paired with Rolls-Royce S63-4 waterjets, enabling the ferry to achieve a top speed of 35 knots while carrying up to 270 passengers. During sea trials, noise-reduction measures such as a floating floor delivered exceptionally low sound levels across passenger decks.
The integration of Fabric Roller Blinds within passenger spaces helps manage sunlight and glare, improving the onboard experience while maintaining clear external visibility where required.
Carbon Fibre Construction for High-Speed Efficiency
Brødrene Aa is internationally recognised as a leader in carbon fibre composite vessel construction, pioneering its application in fast ferry design. Carbon fibre offers exceptional strength and rigidity at very low weight, contributing to higher speeds, reduced fuel consumption, and resistance to corrosion.
Jin Zhu Hu is the first vessel to feature Brødrene Aa’s new exterior design, developed in collaboration with Oslo-based Hareide Design. These innovations support improved efficiency and long-term operational savings within the Marine and Transport sectors.
Supporting Bridge Safety and Passenger Welfare
John Lightfoot MBE, Chairman of Solar Solve Marine, commented:
“Almost every week, at least one consignment of our brand-leading products is supplied to an innovative vessel. While bridge personnel are the primary beneficiaries, passengers on these fast ferries also benefit from DIMMLITE fabric roller blinds installed in passenger areas to protect them from the sun.”
The combination of anti-glare and fabric blinds ensures both operational safety and passenger comfort on high-performance vessels.
Delivery to Hong Kong
Following successful technical sea trials, Jin Zhu Hu was loaded onto a carrier vessel for delivery to Hong Kong, where she will be handed over to her new owners. Both the vessel and her sister ship are fitted with a carefully specified mix of anti-glare roller screens and fabric blinds to support safe operations and a comfortable passenger environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why were SOLASAFE blinds installed on the navigation bridge?
They reduce glare, heat, and UV exposure, helping crew maintain visibility and concentration during high-speed operations.
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What role do DIMMLITE blinds play in passenger areas?
They control sunlight and reduce glare, improving passenger comfort during daytime voyages.
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Are these blinds suitable for fast ferries?
Yes. They are Type Approved and designed to perform reliably on high-speed vessels.
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Were the same systems used on the sister vessel?
Yes. A similar consignment of anti-glare and fabric blinds was supplied for the second ferry to maintain fleet consistency.
