The craft were built to MCA Workboat Code category 3 and feature 6 mm hull plates, reinforced to double thickness in areas vulnerable to ice contact, solid foam collar tubes, and with completely self-righting capabilities.

Propulsion is provided by twin Yanmar 6LPA-STP marine diesels rated 315hp at 3,800rpm driving Hamilton waterjets through ZF 630A gearboxes.

Seastar/Hamilton hydraulic steering gear and Kobelt 2010 single station single lever controls in the cabin are duplicated on a high visibility flying bridge for close contact work in ice and in boarding situations, etc.

Although the primary role of these craft is to tackle burgeoning fishery protection operations, additional vital duties include the logistical demands of ongoing scientific research and rescue duties in a far-flung, isolated region which is beset with severe dangers.

A comprehensive suite of navigation and communication equipment on board each vessel includes an ICOM DSC M601 VHF ship set, an ICOM M1 VHF hand set, Raytheon radar, Raymarine Rystar 120 DGPS primary navigator, a Garmin GPS 72 hand held, Raymarine DSM250 echo sounder, a Taiyo TD-L1550A direction finder and a Raymarine Smart Heading compass system.

A carefully designed multi-purpose console is placed across the stern, incorporating the capsize shut-off aspiration valves to the engines and an additional CO2 activated airbag to reinforce the inherent self-righting capabilities of the wheelhouse. The strengthened wheelhouse has extra thick 9.5 mm polycarbonate windows, six fully articulating seats and special climate control techniques to accommodate both the demands of cold weather and possible capsize.

Modern design and manufacturing techniques were employed throughout the design and construction, including CNC aluminium cutting to plus or minus .25mm, high technology welding techniques and Maxsurf modelling software to determine the righting moment of the craft precisely.

This challenging build project was successfully delivered to a schedule dictated by the departure of the supply ship MV Ernest Shackelton on its annual expedition to re-supply the BAS bases in Antarctica.

MJ Information No: 20435