New deck enhances vessel’s renewable capabilities

The Peterhead UK based firm has recently installed a new upper survey deck on the boat that has been designed specifically for use by wildlife observers conducting seabird and marine mammal surveys at offshore renewable energy sites.

Three seating areas, two fore and one aft, have been installed on the deck. Each accommodates two people comfortably and provides a 330º visual arc and a seated viewing height of 7.2m. Wind protection around the seating areas has also been fitted in order to shield observers from the worst of the elements.

Environmental surveys are an important component of environmental impact assessments that are carried out at proposed wind farm sites. They aim to identify the impact that the wind farm may have in the natural environment by monitoring seabird and marine mammal activity. With around £100bn of investment planned in the offshore wind industry before 2020, there are a number of opportunities for Scotia Charters.

The company’s Alex Wood said, “The planned investments in the offshore renewable energy sector present Scotia Charters with huge opportunities over the coming years. Conducting environmental surveys that monitor seabird and marine mammal activity is an integral component of offshore wind farm developments.

“Installing the new upper deck has increased the observation height we can offer for these surveys by two metres, therefore improving the vessel’s suitability. Scotia W already has excellent onboard facilities that can accommodate ecologists on rotating shift patterns, but this addition strengthens her capabilities, whilst making full use of all available space onboard.”

In addition, a new fixed external seating area has also been installed on the main deck. This comfortably seats six people, offers a seated viewing height of 5.1m and is fitted with safety rails. The new seating area has also increased the vessel’s freshwater carrying capacity, thanks to the installation of an additional water tank below the seats, which helps to extend the vessel’s cruising range.

Converted from a former North Sea fishing trawler, Scotia W is a traditional wood hull vessel that offers good quality accommodation for up to ten guests. Accommodation includes four twin and two single en-suite guest cabins, a large lounge and dining area, and a spacious wheelhouse with an adjoining workstation that is suitable for collating and analysing data.

Scotia W is operated by Peterhead based Scotia Charters and comes with a crew of four, which includes a cook.