A new research and patrol catamaran has been ordered for off the east coast of England.
Goodchild Marine Services Limited and Eastern Inshore Fisheries Conservation Authority (Eastern IFCA) have signed contracts for a new 16m research and patrol catamaran.
Eastern IFCA’s district encompasses the counties of Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk and extends six nautical miles out to sea.
This patrol boat, a Lynx 16m catamaran costing £1.6m, will have an A-frame-launched RIB tender, various winches, along with sensors and sampling equipment. Not to mention an onboard laboratory to analyse samples, as science and research is fundamental to EIFCA’s work.
The vessel can reach speeds of 22kts and will have the latest IMO Tier III engines providing efficiency and emissions compliance.
Stephen Pierce, General Manager at Goodchild Marine Services Limited, said: “This is another example of our commitment to support our fishing industry as well as adding value to the local economy as we will use several local supply chain companies on this project”.
Julian Gregory CEO of Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority said “We are pleased that the contract for our replacement research vessel has been awarded to a local company. Not only will this enable us to be closely involved with the build process, but it also brings benefits to the local economy. The design of the new vessel will improve upon our current capabilities and a projected long service life will ensure that we get value for money”.
