Alu Marine completes survey vessels
French shipbuilder, Alu Marine, has completed the construction of two 7.80m aluminium survey vessels for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The vessels, which were ordered in spring 2012, are equipped with an automatic GPS positioning system and the latest equipment for the entry and processing of bathymetric data (depth measurement of the seabed).
They will be used to carry out hydrographic surveys in the Congo River to guide dredging and marking for the development of a transport network in the DRC as part of a multimodal transport project.
The DRC multimodal transport project aims to improve transport connections between the east and west of the country and develop trade and economic activity.
The shape of the hull has been designed to minimise pitching when probing through waters, generating more accurate readings. The stable hull also minimises disruption around the transducer, while the diamond shaped bow allows for easy passage in choppy waters.
Under the contract, Alu Marine will also provide training for bathymetric operations and maintenance. The vessels will start work on the Congo River this month.
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