The design has been developed so that the boats create the least resistance when moving through the water. As a result, they will use far less fuel, produce less carbon dioxide and cause much smaller waves to impact upon the riverbank environment. The design has also been tank tested for hydrodynamic optimisation at Newcastle University and Shoreham UK based Amgram Ltd has performed structural optimisation to meet Lloyds regulations. Both worked as sub-contractors to Alnmaritec, which won the open tender with a low wash design for a vessel capable of harbour patrol and pilot boat duties on a platform displacing only ten tons.

Read the full story in the November issue of Maritime Journal.