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Liverpool’s Survey Boat is a ‘Wildcat’
01 Dec 2006
The Port of Liverpool has awarded the contract to supply a new hydrographic survey vessel to Irish workboat and pilot boat builder Safehaven Marine. Following an international tender process Safehaven Marine’s Wildcat catamaran design was chosen. Ian Holden, the Port’s hydrographic manager opted for a twin hull design as a result of the port’s intention to use sophisticated multi beam sonar equipment.
The deployment of the valuable sonar head and its subsequent protection made the choice of catamaran a logical step, as by deploying the sonar head through a moon pool in the bridge deck means it is fully protected between the twin hulls. Being at the centre of the craft, pitch and heel motions are minimised, maximising the accuracy of colleted data. The sonar head can be raised through the moon pool hatch for fast transit speeds of 20 knots.
Following a visit to Safehaven’s yard a final specification was prepared. It was decided to use the newly developed 40ft version of the Wildcat catamaran, in which the vessel’s length has been increased to 12m and which utilises a new one piece hull mould, further improving the excellent sea keeping as well as increasing the aft cockpit area.
The vessel will feature twin 385hp Caterpillar 3126 main engines for a maximum speed of 25 knots whilst a 10kva generator will provide onboard power for the surveying equipment.
The vessel will be luxuriously fitted out to provide a comfortable environment for the crew. The central helm position has been carefully designed to allow long, fatigue free periods for the helmsman in a ‘car like’ driving position. The surveying station will also be very user friendly, helped no end by the catamaran’s ability to provide a spacious accommodation area due to its wide beam.
Cargo handling in the aft cockpit will be carried out by an Opacmare electro hydraulic crane. The compact design provides a 300kg lift capacity and a 2.4m reach.
The vessel is now under construction, with the hull nearing completion. The contracted delivery is June 2007.
MJ Information No: 22501
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