The Xplorer's main role will be as a hydrographic survey and diving support vessel but it can also be deployed as a marine construction workboat and may also see duty as a television documentary film platform, a sector in which Sea Trax has been acquiring a CV.

As with all Gemini Workboats, Xplorer is a bespoke design to the client's specific requirements.

It features a toilet and galley area in the forward starboard side, a double berth cabin in the forward port side and a single cabin either side of the extended wheelhouse. The twin 430hp Cummins 6 CTA engines are fitted aft of the side cabins while two gensets are fitted in the aft holds.

Andrew Craig of Gemini Workboats has been happy with the overall performance of the Fastcat. On trials off Colchester the craft proved to be highly manoeuvrable while generating very little spray and wash.

The engines, driving Clements Engineering sterngear through ZF gears, pushed the 12.5 tonne craft to a top speed of 27 knots and managed 26 knots with one tonne of ballast and 10 passengers on board. Cruising at 20 knots on the delivery voyage to Portsmouth saw a frugal fuel consumption of only 60 litres per hour.

During the trials, inclining tests were carried out with the help of local MCA surveyor Bill MacGregor. Two tonnes placed on the port side caused the vessel to heal over by only 1.7º and with the same two tonnes placed across the stern, the transom immersed only 4 inches.

Complying with the MCA Code of Practice Category 2, Sea Trax can operate Xplorer around the UK to 60 miles from shore. Dave Burden is presently conducting a final fit out in Portsmouth preparatory to a 1st April commissioning, whereupon the vessel goes straight into its first six month contract.

MJ Information No: 16829