Austal Vietnam has handed over its first aluminium and steel vessel, the 71–metre roll on/roll-off passenger (RoPax) cargo vessel, Dory 2, to the Degage Group of French Polynesia.
With a steel monohull and aluminium superstructure, Dory 2 confirms Austal Vietnam as a multi–material shipbuilder and highlights Austal’s expanding regional steel shipbuilding capabilities.
A handover ceremony took place at Austal’s Vung Tau shipyard on 15 June 2026, following the successful completion of comprehensive sea trials, and reflects the long partnership between Austal and the Degage Group. Dory 2, designed by Austal Australia, began construction in 2024 and was launched in March 2026.
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,” Mr Pleiter said.
“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.” Mark Pleiter, Vice President of Austal Vietnam
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,” Mr Degage said.
“From design to delivery, the construction process has been characterised by Austal’s commitment to excellence and innovation.”
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.