French survey boats delivered to Congo
Alu Marine of France has completed the construction of two survey launches for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
This order was won by Alu Marine in spring 2012 following a public tender from the Congolaise des Voies Maritimes (CVM). The two aluminium boats have now been delivered to Boma, DRC.
The boats will make hydrographic surveys in the Congo River ahead of dredging works and for the development of a transport network in the DRC (Multimodal Transport Project),which aims to improve transport connections between the east and west of the DRC, and thus develop trade and economic activity in the area. Some 150 km of river encompasses the distance between the mouth of the Congo River, Banana and Matadi.
The hydrographic survey boats are each equipped with an automatic GPS and the latest equipment dedicated to the entry and processing of bathymetric data. The two boats will also probe secondary channels and shallow depth creeks.
The contract with Alu Marine also includes user training on bathymetric operations and maintenance.
The shape of the hull has been optimized to minimize pitching when probing in rough waters, generating more accurate readings. The concentration of weight at the lowest parts of the vessels reduces rolling. The boats are ruggedly built in aluminium, with the stable hull generating minimal disruption around the transducer and shallow draft enabling probes into shallow areas. The diamond-shaped bow extends the dynamic waterline and allows easy passage in choppy seas.
The vessels measure 7.8m LOA with a beam of 2.8m and a draft of 0.80m. Twin 115 hp main engines provide a service speed of up to 10 knots.
Neopolia Marine is a regional French industry association whoe members are responsible for delivering everything from small open patrol boats, to high speed crew transfer vessels, steel work boats, tugs, dredgers, ferries, and small cruise ships.
