High tech Thames cat
The UK’s Port of London Authority (PLA) has ordered a new purpose-built survey catamaran for the river Thames. The CTruk MPC19 is set to replace the PLA’s current ‘Yantlet’.
The new boat is due to enter service later this year and will continue the PLA Hydrography team’s vital survey work which facilitates safe navigation on the tidal Thames. The river is an essential link for trade, travel and leisure. It is home to the UK’s second biggest port, is the busiest inland waterway and hosts the largest concentration of rowing clubs in the country.
The CTruk MPC19 is a hydro-dynamically optimised twin-hull design that boosts smooth passage through the water. It also has a low draught for shallow water access and a low air draught (height) so it can get under Thames bridges with ease. The boat can accommodate up to 12 people (two crew and 10 passengers) and is water jet propelled for low draught.
Capt. John Pinder, port hydrographer, said: “This boat should be an excellent addition to our fleet. It offers more space to our busy crew and its fuel efficiency is a bonus that will help us keep costs down. We very much look forward to taking delivery of the craft and naming her.”
Essex-based supplier CTruk will build the FRP composite vessel using a vacuum resin-infusion technique.
By Jake Frith
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