Low air draft wheelhouse for Jessica S

Naval architect Ian C. Darley subsequently collaborated with Grimsby based shipbuilders and repairers Harris & Garrod to replace the temporary control cabin with a new low air draft wheelhouse which allows all tide access under all the Thames bridges except Hammersmith.

The work undertaken in Grimsby was part of a complete refit in Grimsby which also included work to doors and hatches. Spalding based specialist Malcolm Sly overhauled the vessel’s twin 425 hp Caterpillar 3408 diesels.

The new wheelhouse has been designed with surveyors in mind, and the large chart table area provides ample space for survey equipment. Enhanced all around visibility for the helmsman is further improved by raising the wheelhouse when at sea, which then enables the area below to accommodate long materials such as piles or girders.

Lightweight aluminium construction has significantly reduced the aft draft without compromising the performance of Jessica S. Also featuring a lay flat mast and aerials, Jessica S has access to upriver sites and other hard to reach locations denied to many similar vessels.

Hampshire UK based Coastal Launch Services reports that with the new wheelhouse and repairs having just been completed, Jessica S is ready to work.

Technical specification:

Length overall: 20m

Beam: 9m

Draft: 1.75m

Speed: 8 knots

Bollard Pull: 9.5 tonnes