Another first for the company last year was the production of a tender package for a new 20m aluminium pilot vessel for Orkney Islands Council. A concept design was produced to the exacting requirements of the Council with the vessel capable of a top speed of 21 knots. Featuring a wheelhouse with seating for six and two double cabins, with a mess/galley below decks, the vessel will be designed to operate comfortably in the harsh conditions found around Scapa Flow.

Currently out to tender is a design for a 20m multi-cargo vessel for the West Coast of Ireland. With a beam of 7.20m and a moulded depth of 2.90m, this twin screw vessel will be capable of carrying a combination of bulk cargo, palletised/container cargo, vehicles on deck and cargo oil fuel whilst also being able to carry out general harbour duties including towing and pushing.

The cargo hold will carry 60 tons, with another 10 tons carried on deck. Cargo handling duties will be handled by a 50 t/m deck crane whilst the vessel will also be fitted with a 10 ton core pull winch and an ‘A’ frame serving the stern. Power will be provided by twin 480hp main engines. Also fitted will be twin high performance rudders and a bow thruster. Designed to safely operate in offshore conditions, the vessel will have scantlings in excess of class minimum to extend its working life.

Nearing completion at Macduff Shipyards is the 27m research vessel 'Alba Na Mara'. MSD has acted as project manager for owner Fisheries Research Services throughout the tendering and build process. A truly deep sea and multi-function vessel, it follows on from the success of the 22m 'Aora', designed by MSD four years ago.

MSD is currently working on a variety of projects involving new vessels as well as lengthenings of existing vessels, feasibility studies for change of use, and general stability/drawing work