Marine & Maritime Gazette November 2020

MARINE & MARITIME

GAZETTE Commercial Marine & Renewables Worldwide

ISSUE 69

NOVEMBER 2020

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A socially distanced maritime world...

So how are we all coping?

Welcome to the November 2020 issue of Marine & Maritime Gazette the monthly magazine aimed at Worldwide coverage of the commercial marine, shipping and waterbased renewables markets.

With socially distanced ‘Fireworks Night Celebrations’ now upon us, the maritime world is also still a very different place.

‘Post-Covid’ problems are still affecting all of us across the maritime industry worldwide, so just what can we all expect for the future - and more importantly, can we all continue to cope and keep moving forward?

Inside this issue, as usual, we will be covering a huge amount of topics including ‘Tugs, Workboats & OSVs’ on page 28, to the ‘ins and outs’ of ‘Underwater, Subsea & Diving’ from page 20.

We also have a ‘quick peek’ into ‘Marine Civils & Construction’ on page 36 and a dive into ‘Training, Certification & Courses’ from page 40.

Anyway, we hope you enjoy reading Commercial Ma rine & Renewabl es Worldwide this edition and look forward to seeing many of you in and around events later this year.

If you have any news, reviews, product launches or absolutely anything else of interest across the whole marine market, please email it through to me at info@bljournals.plus.com for future consideration in our forthcoming issues.

MARINE & MARITIME

GAZETTE

Arthur Peaches - Editor

www.marineandmaritimegazette.com

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Cover story WesCom Signal and Rescue’s advice to stay compliant as MCA extensions to come to an end.

p18 Research tender Metal Shark builds custom 38 foot Research Tender for R/V OceanXplorer.

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Marine Society launch Navigation@Sea course

The UK Marine Society is launching a new digital course - Navigation@Sea which will help learners to acquire the underpinning knowledge in an engaging, virtual and flexible environment.

Available via a smartphone app download, this course gives you the chance to plan and chart your own online voyage from Plymouth to Dover, learning how to plot and calculate a

Italy ASD Damen delivers ASD Tug 2813 to Con.Tug in Italy.

p29 Apprenticeship program Mississippi based Halter Marine partners with local college to launch apprenticeship program.

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EDITORIAL Arthur Peaches - Editor Tel 01322 352648 Email info@bljournals.plus.com

SALES & PROMOTIONS David Peters - Publisher Tel 01322 352648 Email info@bljournals.plus.com

Brian Wakefield - Advertisement Director Tel 01622 682667 Mob 07973 139959 Email brian_wakefield2003@yahoo.co.uk

PUBLISHING COMPANY BL Journals, 3 Biddenden Way, Istead Rise, Gravesend, Kent DA13 9DE Tel 01322 352648 Email info@bljournals.plus.com @MandMGazette

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All contents of the publication are copyright and remain the sole property of the publishing company.

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course while creating a passage plan.

It also shows the effect of tides and weather and helps the learner understand the function and uses of electronic navigational aids.

Written in accordance with MSQ Unit 95 - Introduction to Navigation - the course will suit anyone who does not have prior knowledge in this area.

Those interested in learning more about the course can contact the Marine Society at learning@ms-sc.org or visit fal.cn/navigation to purchase.

Darrell Bate, Director of Maritime Training and Development at the Marine Society, said, “This is a muchneeded addition to our growing suite of maritime contextual upskilling courses that will help individuals build their navigational knowledge in preparation for more formal study.”

BL JOURNALS

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Damen hands over MV Swift to Windermere Lake Cruises Recently Damen Shipyards Group and Winander Leisure Limited signed the Protocol of Delivery and Acceptance for the official handover of MV Swift, a vessel to be operated by Windermere Lake Cruises Limited. The project has been a unique one, with Damen building the vessel inland on location at Windermere in the Lake District National Park in the UK. Over the past 40 years, Damen has delivered over 1.000 of vessels via the Damen Technical Cooperation (DTC). DTC makes possible the building of Damen vessels, anywhere in the world, at non-Damen locations.

This is the first DTC project that the shipbuilder has carried out in the UK. Damen has built MV Swift in a car park on the lakeside owned by the client.

As well as being a UK National Park, the Lake District is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Damen has worked closely with both its client and the local community in order to ensure compliance with the robust regulations in place to protect this important environment.

MV Swift is the seventeenth vessel in Windermere Lake Cruises’ fleet. She is a unique vessel, tailored to Windermere Lake Cruises’ requirements. The company is one of the UK’s most popular attractions, welcoming over 1.6 million visitors in a normal year.

To serve these people, Windermere Lake Cruises needed a vessel that was able to operate in a variety of weather conditions, year-round, picking up and dropping off passengers from small jetties around the lake. To those ends, MV Swift features covered decks with large windows and, at 34 metres, is slightly smaller than the company’s current flagships.

Damen sales manager Mike Besijn said of the handover, “I am very happy to be delivering this special vessel. Working together on this with Windermere Lake Cruises, we have made the project into a success. This is a very unique way of building a vessel, requiring a lot of flexibility and we could not have done it without the support of our customer. Their operational experience has been priceless to us throughout the construction process. I would particularly like to thank managing director Nigel Wilkinson and operations director John Woodburn for the excellent cooperation. It’s been a pleasure to work with them.” www.damen.com

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Investment for Port of Guayaquil Ecuador’s Port of Guayaquil is set to receive £18m (USD) investment to boost its capacity to handle neopanamax vessels.

Great Yarmouth aims for 'UK strategic offshore port' status

Contecon Guayaquil S.A. (CGSA), International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) subsidiary in Ecuador, will carry out the work in three stages. Stage one will raise the height of quay cranes 5 and 6 from 42m to 52m, and extend their boom lengths from 50m to 56m (20 rows). The second stage involves works to reinforce the docks, while stage three will further deepen Pier 1’s draft to 13.5m.

Peel Ports, the UK operator of the Port of Great Yarmouth has registered an ongoing case for the site to be considered as a strategic offshore wind port by the UK Government.

The Port of Great Yarmouth is ready to support the UK Government’s pledge to power every home in the UK with offshore wind energy within a decade, a Peel Ports spokesperson stated.

At the recent Conservative party conference, the Prime Minister said £160m would go towards upgrading ports and factories for building turbines to help the country ‘build back greener’. The Port of Great Yarmouth, which has more than 50 years’ experience in delivering offshore projects, has invested £12m in upgrading its quays, equipment and storage areas to support the industry. The port’s location is also in it’s favour as it is close to the Southern North Sea, which has the largest concentration of offshore wind projects in the world.

The majority of these are within 140 km of the deepwater port, which makes it ‘ideally positioned’ to deliver large-scale offshore projects to meet government targets.

Peel Ports great Yarmouth port director Richard Goffin commented: “We welcome the Prime Minister’s announcement that he is planning to invest in a sector that we have always identified as key to meeting targets for greener energy production.

“At Great Yarmouth, we have already invested significantly in our facilities to support the sector and we have a proven track record of delivering big offshore energy projects.

“We were selected to act as the marshalling harbour for the Galloper wind farm and more recently the East Anglia 1 wind farm that became fully operational this year.”

The Government will also reveal more detail later this year to accelerate further progress towards net zero emissions by 2050. To meet these targets, Peel Ports Great Yarmouth is continuing to invest in its facilities, with significant development plans in the pipeline, including the possibility to expand the port’s footprint by land reclamation.

Recently, Norfolk County Council announced £6m of funding to deliver an offshore energy operations and maintenance campus at the port.

The investment aims to rejuvenate parts of land owned by Great Yarmouth Borough Council and Peel Ports Great Yarmouth to create a campus located at the entrance of the River Yare.

Goffin continued: “We’re already capable of supporting all wind farm industry port operations, including surveying, manufacturing, pre-assembly, installation and commissioning, operational and maintenance, and decommissioning.

However, we are continually investing in our site, quays and facilities to ensure we can host any scale of offshore projects.

“As well as the creation of the O&M campus, there is also the potential for us to add further land for development including a Southern terminal creating an extra 10 hectares of outside storage space, an additional 350m quay, a new heavy lift pad area and options for both RoRo and LoLo operations.” www.peelports.com

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“This is a decisive complement to the joint commitment we have made to achieve great objectives in pursuit of the development of this sector,” said José Antonio Contreras, CGSA general manager, who signed the contract together with Gabriel Martínez, Ecuador’s Minister of Transportation and Public Works.

CGSA started servicing neopanamax vessels in 2019, becoming the first port in the country capable of handling this large class of containerships following the dredging of the 95km access channel leading to the Port of Guayaquil.

Beyond the contract, CGSA plans to increase the total investment amount to US$30m as part of its commitment to enable and promote Ecuador’s foreign trade.

CGSA has been operating at the Port of Guayaquil since 2007 under a 20-year concession.

Last December, the Autoridad Portuaria de Guayaquil extended the concession period for another 20 years, allowing the company to operate until 2047.

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Active- RTE and Passive Radar Reflectors ECHOMAX ACTIVE-XS dual band RTE with multiple visual and audible alarm functions and now with optional waterproof control box for RIBS or exposed mounting - Meets ISO 8729-2 - NATO stock No 5741-99269-3512 - Our Actice RTE have been fitted to the Clipper Around the World Yachts for the last 5 years.

Active XS, EM230 and EM230i were all mandatory fits on the 2018 Golden Globe Race Yachts.

ECHOMAX EM230/230BR Ships Wheel Mark passive radar reflector for Life Boats and Rescue Craft - Meets ISO 8729-1997 - Module B and D certificates available upon request.

Available in white, orange, yellow, red, green etc. NATO stock number 5840-99-742-6193.

Damen Maaskant Shipyards

Stellendam lays keels for two

Belgian fishing fleet vessels

In a sign of growing optimism within the Belgian fishing fleet, on Thursday 8th of October, Damen Maaskant Shipyards Stellendam held a keel-laying ceremony in Poland for two new beam trawlers for two separate clients - Rederij Devan and Rederij Long Ships.

The new beam trawler for Rederij Devan will be named the Z21 Avanti, while its sistership for Rederij Long Ships is to be christened Z91 Franson. When Rederij Devan owner Steve Depaepe began looking for a future solution for his fishing business back in 2018, talks with Maaskant resulted in the realisation that one highly efficient vessel would be more profitable than the two less efficient boats that he currently operates. For Rederij Long Ships owner Eddie Cattoor, the decision to invest in a new fishing vessel was based on numerous factors. “We had been looking forward to a new vessel for some time, and now the time is ripe. Fish prices and quotas are satisfactory, the oil price is reasonable and our current vessel is ready for replacement. In short, a good time to invest.”

The vessels are based on Maaskant’s BT3808 design. The BT3808, with specifications that include the maximum permitted length and gross tonnage set by the Belgian Maritime Inspectorate, is a perfect fit for these experienced operators. The basic design has been modified in cooperation with SIP Marine to reduce fuel consumption and increase bollard pull.

“For both the Belgian and Dutch fishing fleets, becoming more efficient through innovation is an important issue,” commented Maaskant’s commercial manager Jeroen van den Berg.

“To remain competitive, they need to minimise their operating costs in every way possible, and at Maaskant we continuously revaluate every aspect of the design and fitting out of our fishing boat designs to deliver just that. The updated Damen BT3808 beam trawler in particular offers owners and operators many advantages in today’s challenging commercial fishing environment.” www.damen.com

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ECHOMAX EMAO3I Inflatable radar reflector for liferafts - Certified to Schedule 4, Part 4, Paragraph 1.1.14 of Merchant Shipping (life saving appliances Regulations 1986 - chapter III, Regulation 38.5.1.14 of the 1983 (SOLAS) 1974). Suitable for stowage in liferaft emergency packs up to 36m above sea level as required by IMO Notice M.1485, 1991 - Certificate no.

QQ-TAN-04/3-01.

EM325

EM325

EM230 Basemount

EM230 Basemount

All our passive-reflectors are also now available in red and green. The base mounted EM230BM and EM325 with responses up to 86M2 and optional fittings for Sealite or Carmanah lanterns are ideally suited for pedestal or buoy mounted land or sea hazards

We are proud that all Echomax products are designed and manufactured in the UK and 60% of our business is export.

echomaxsales@aol.com www.echomax.co.uk @MandMGazette ISO 8729-1999

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Metal Shark builds custom 38 foot Research Tender for R/V OceanXplorer

US Shipbuilder Metal Shark has delivered a new research tender to New York-based nonprofit ocean exploration initiative and media organization OceanX. The custom 38-foot Defiant-class welded aluminium monohull pilothouse vessel will be carried aboard the recently-launched one-of-a-kind scientific research, media production, and exploration vessel, the R/V OceanXplorer. Designed and built to be the most advanced combined marine research and media vessel in existence, OceanXplorer is both a floating, integrated marine research platform and a Hollywood-calibre media production studio.

Members of Metal Shark’s in-house engineering team worked in close collaboration with the client’s team to accommodate an ambitious set of mission requirements for this multi-mission tender vessel. This effort resulted in a highly optimized vessel design incorporating numerous specialized features.

The tender’s customized aft deck features a removable aft hydraulic a-frame for lifting, removable dive benches and an awning for crew protection, dual flip-up convertible bench seats, an aft helm station for manoeuvring the vessel in close quarters, and a removable filming tower.

A dive refill station with two 50 litre cylinders was added below deck, along with crew accommodations including a climate controlled cabin with air conditioning and heat, head with fresh water shower and tankless water heater, water maker filtration system, and a custom berth with IT rack beneath.

Powered by twin Cummins QSB 6.7 550 HP diesel inboards mated to Hamilton HJ 292 water jets with Blue Arrow controls, the 38 Defiant demonstrates pinpoint manoeuvrability at all speeds, while the JETanchor system assists with station-keeping and also offers a “virtual anchor” mode. The choice of diesel power allows the tender to refuel off the mothership safely while eliminating the hazards of storing and transferring the gasoline typically required for outboards.

A SeaKeeper stabilization system was added to reduce vessel pitch and roll. Singlepoint and four-point lift options facilitate vessel launch and retrieval from aboard the mothership, eliminating straps and spreader bars while improving safety for the crew.

A removable bow push knee adds an extra element of utility while allowing for safe boarding from the bow.

“Producing this custom boat for OceanX provided us with an ideal opportunity to showcase one of Metal Shark’s core competencies, which is adapting a proven platform through engineering to meet a demanding set of mission requirements,” said Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard. “It was an honor to be selected for this program and we are excited to see this new Metal Shark put to work.” www.metalsharkboats.com

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Damen Shipyard’s Group Fast Crew Supplier 2710 has received an approval in principle from ABS. This is an important step towards Damen’s next generation CTV (Crew Transfer Vessel) being used to support the developing US offshore wind industry.

Damen FCS 2710 gets ABS approval in principle

To achieve the approval, Damen has modified the design of its standard FCS 2710 to meet the US requirements. Waterjets are now incorporated, driven by engines that are compliant with US Environmental Protection Agency regulations. The FCS 2710, over 65ft in length, is well suited to the tough operating conditions on the US Atlantic coast. Its size ensures the vessel’s capability to continue operating during the winter period, when smaller vessels will need to power down or even remain in harbour.

The FCS 2710 has already proven its capabilities, quickly making a name for itself in the European offshore wind arena. The FCS 2710 draws on the success of predecessor gamechanging design, the FCS 2610. Damen increased the size of the design in order to offer greater flexibility, deck space, tank capacity, increased comfort and additional accommodation. When Damen unveiled the FCS 2710, a key element was the vessel’s increased tunnel height above the water, which enables it to operate in waters with over 2 meter significant wave height for considerably increased uptime.

The vessel features Damen’s renowned Sea Axe hull form – here in Twin Axe formation – to deliver safety and comfort even in rough waters. The Sea Axe reduces vertical accelerations by enabling the vessel to glide through the waves.

Mark Honders, Manager Design & Licences said, “We are very pleased that the FCS 2710 has received this ABS approval in principle. The vessel has performed very well in European operations and has also received orders from Asia. We feel very confident in its suitability for operations in North American projects also.

Damen has the goal of becoming the world’s most sustainable shipbuilder and we are very proud to contribute to the production of renewable energy around the world with our products.” www.damen.com

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Yanmar receives order for

8EY26LDF dual fuel engines to power Japan’s first LNG ferries

Yanmar has received an order from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd (MOL) for dual fuel 8EY26LDF engines. The engines will be used to power generators on board Japan’s first two LNG ferries (provisionally named ‘Sunflower Kurenai’ and ‘Sunflower Murasaki’). The ferries are to be built at Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.’s Shimonoseki Shipyard.

Ferry Sunflower (a group company of MOL) will charter the ferries after delivery and launch them on its Osaka-Beppu route from the end of 2022 through the first half of 2023, as replacements for vessels currently in service. As emission regulations in the marine sector become ever more stringent year on year, LNG vessels are being adopted globally as a means of reducing environmental impact. As this trend has grown in recent years, dual fuel engines have attracted ever more attention. Their ability to run on both readily available diesel as well as environmentally friendly LNG allows them to satisfy International Maritime Organization (IMO) Tier 3 regulations whilst also reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. With features such as load fluctuation tracking, acceleration performance, and high thermal efficiency, in addition to precision air-fuel ratio control technology, ‘8EY26LDF’ engines always maintain optimum combustion, enabling them to deliver stable, highly reliable operation.

Moving forward, Yanmar will continue striving to reduce environmental impact, and develop clean marine powertrains to provide optimal solutions that meet the needs of our customers. www.yanmar.com

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UK’s largest ferry operator enters into three-year Framework Agreement with MJR Power and Automation The UK’s largest ferry operator - CalMac Ferries Ltd - has awarded a UK based marine power and electrical engineering business a three-year framework contract for the provision of electrical installations services.

Located in the North East of England, MJR Power and Automation has been appointed - alongside three other companies - to deliver its leading marine services to support CalMac Ferries with a series of upgrade projects planned over the next few years.

Forming part of the CalMac’s resilience program, this will see the ferry operator undertake major upgrades to modernise 33 of its ferries, currently operating 29 routes across the west coast of Scotland, including upgrading of main power, electrical and automation system infrastructure across the fleet.

The framework award comes on the back of MJR Power and Automation successfully delivering a series of contracts which seen the business carry out major electrical power and control upgrades and installations over the past 18 months during planned scheduled maintenance at shipyards across Scotland and the North of England.

Speaking about the framework award, Paul Cairns, Managing Director at MJR Power and Automation said: “We are delighted to have been selected as CalMac’s partner of choice for marine electrical upgrades and installations through a very competitive and rigorous tender process. The successful delivery and execution of recent major infrastructure projects demonstrates CalMac’s confidence in our business to provide safe, efficient and right first-time solutions, subsequently leading to us being awarded the framework agreement.

“We have an unrivalled level of repeat business reinforcing our reputation built on 25 years’ of experience and technical expertise of marine systems and applications. This is all underpinned on a firm understanding of both the customers and marine classification society requirements coupled the quality and management of works carried out by our first-class engineering and installation teams.

“We pride ourselves on working as an extension to our customers teams to deliver the very best results and we have forged a great relationship with CalMac over the last 18 months built on quality and trust.”

Major upgrades successfully completed by MJR Power and Automation include the propulsion and pitch control system with over 12000 metres of cable supplied, installed and tested as part of the delivery of electrical, control and data infrastructure upgrade completed on four ferries including one of its flagship vessels, the MV Clansman Isle of Lewis.

The company also installed over 5000 metres of marine Cat6 cable for the new state of the art marine approved CCTV system which included the design, specification, installation and commissioning covering three ferries consisting of the largest vessels in the fleet, the Caledonian Isles.

MJR Power and Automation is the only company of its size based in the UK to offer a complete end to end marine electrical engineering solutions. As such, it has the ability to be nimble and dynamic to meet the technically complex marine power, electrical and automation engineering needs for its clients on a local, national and international scale.

Robert Allan, Senior Project Manager at Calmac Ferries said: “CalMac provides an everyday lifeline and logistical support service to west coast communities and for tourism. We play a critical role in the economic sustainability of the area’s social and business life.

“As such, it is vital that we work in partnership with trusted suppliers that deliver the very best services, to allow our vessels to continue to run as safely and efficiently as possible. We have been really impressed with the works already completed and underway with MJR Power and Automation, that it is great to award this formal framework agreement that will support CalMac with the continued delivery of the resilience program that will see future major works undertaken.” www.mjrpower.com

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DuroWipers wins RNLI Severn class supply first

The RNLI has announced its life extension programme for the Severn class lifeboat and DuroWiper Class 60 pantographs are being tested on the prototype vessel.

“If the wipers perform well during trials, we will extend the order to the first batch of six boats in the programme,” said Nick Fenwick Severn Life Extension Project Manager.

Upgrade

This is the first time that the Severn Class will have a DuroWiper system fitted; but the RNLI’s Shannon class already has a DuroWiper system fitted, the Class 50, which has performed well.

“It is advantageous to rationalise supply, but this is not the main driver for selecting a supplier for new projects,” said Mr Fenwick.

“Maintainability and reducing maintenance are key criteria when selecting equipment along with cost, reliability, ruggedness, supplier confidence and any other relevant criteria, dependent on the equipment being supplied.”

Quality assurance

DuroWipers offers extended and lifetime warranties for its wiper systems which both the RNLI and the UK Royal Navy have taken advantage of.

“The DuroWipers come with a Lifetime Warranty which makes them maintenance free", said Noel Gould, owner, DuroWipers.

“That’s how confident we are in the strength of our wipers. The wipers’ reputation speaks for itself.”

DuroWipers originally secured a contract to supply 57 RNLI vessels with wiper systems, including the new Shannon class lifeboats, back in 2012.

It has since gone on to supply over half of the subsequent newbuild Shannon lifeboats.

Severn Life Extension Programme The RNLI says that the programme of upgrades will extend the life of its Severn class lifeboats so they can continue saving lives at sea for another 25 years.

The largest and most powerful class of lifeboat, the 42t Severn entered service back in 1996 and there are currently 44 of these lifesaving vessels in the charity’s fleet. They need an update as they’re nearing retirement age.

Through this life extension upgrade, the Severn’s wheelhouse will be completely redesigned and a wide range of upgrades will be made.

An allocation of six Severn class lifeboats will be upgraded initially, with the upgrades taking place at the RNLI’s All-weather Lifeboat Centre in Poole, Dorset.

Work is already underway on the first vessel to receive its life extension upgrade which should undergo sea trials at the end of the year.

Aberdeen Lifeboat Station is due to receive the first upgraded Severn by the end of 2021.

The average anticipated cost of each life extension upgrade is £1.25m - significantly less than the cost of designing and building a brand-new class of lifeboat to replace the Severn, but still expensive.

So, the RNLI has launched its “Save our Severns” appeal with the aim of raising £700,000 to help fund these vital upgrades to enable this magnificent class of lifeboat to continue saving lives at sea. To donate visit: RNLI.org/Severn25 www.durowipers.co.uk

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U.S. Coast Guard selects Metal Shark and Sea Machines for new autonomous vessel The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has selected Louisiana-based shipbuilder Metal Shark and Boston-based autonomous technology developer Sea Machines to supply an autonomous test vessel to the USCG Research and Development Center (RDC).

The welded-aluminium 29 Defiant craft is the latest product of Metal Shark’s ‘Sharktech Autonomous Vessels’ division to be equipped with Sea Machines SM300 autonomous-command and remote-helm technology. The new vessel offers a full range of advanced capabilities including transit autonomy, collaborative autonomy, active ride control and collision avoidance, and remote control vessel monitoring.

As the Coast Guard’s primary facility performing research, development, and test evaluation in support of the service’s major missions, the RDC helps to transition innovative technologies into the USCG’s operational forces.

During exercises scheduled for October off the coast of Hawaii, the RDC team will test and evaluate the Sharktech vessel’s autonomous capabilities for their potential in supporting USCG surveillance, interdiction, patrol, and other missions. The new vessel will then be homeported at the RDC’s facility in New London, CT. “Since the launch of our Sharktech Autonomous Vessels division in 2018 we have been working to position Metal Shark for the autonomy revolution,” said Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard. “We are committed to the advancement of autonomous technology, through our relationships with leading autonomy suppliers as well as through our own R&D, and we are engaged with multiple customers, from the USCG, the Department of Defense, and commercial operators. With this latest delivery, Metal Shark is proud to play a role in the Coast Guard’s autonomous technology R&D efforts.”

“Sea Machines is proud to actively support the Department of Defense across a variety of projects, including this important demonstration being conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard,” said Sea Machines’ Phil Bourque, director, sales. “Our systems are being rapidly adopted by government and commercial operators alike, offering increases in on-water productivity and predictability, while reducing operational risk.” www.metalsharkboats.com

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HNLMS Pelikaan back in Curaçao after midlife upgrade

by Damen in the Netherlands HNLMS Pelikaan is back again in the familiar waters of the Caribbean. In September Damen Shipyards Den Helder delivered the HNLMS Pelikaan to the Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) following a mid-life upgrade lasting eight months. Following the work, the vessel, which Damen delivered to the RNLN in 2006, is ready for a further 15 years’ service.

At the end of November 2019, the Caribbean support vessel returned to the Dutch coast for the first time since she was put into service in 2006. After operating for thirteen years in the Caribbean Sea in support of maritime operations and in the delivery of humanitarian relief, it was time for major maintenance works. This took place at the Damen yards in Den Helder and Harlingen.

Works carried out included installing new nautical, communication and automation systems, galley upgrade and regular maintenance such as maintenance of the two main engines. The most important upgrade was the installation of a considerably heavier crane, the main weapon system of HNLMS Pelikaan. This crane is crucial for, among other things, being able to independently carry out emergency relief operations in the Caribbean. The crane is not only considerably heavier, more modern and more user-friendly than its predecessor, it also facilitates the use of a new fast raiding interceptor and special forces craft (FRISC). This fast and manoeuvrable craft enables HNLMS Pelikaan to act more effectively in the fight against drug smuggling. Furthermore, the scope of work involved the renewal of all onboard accommodation, including making the vessel more suitable for female passengers.

Project leader Jan-Dirk Boomsma said, “The project was not without its challenges – including of course the outbreak of the coronavirus. However, with robust safety measures in place we were able to continue the work. Thanks to the excellent cooperation with the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), the Naval Maintenance and Sustainment Agency (DMI) and the crew, we delivered the project to everyone’s satisfaction in a relatively short period of time.

The midlife upgrade was successfully realised, partly in close collaboration with the Dutch naval shipbuilding cluster. Alewijnse, Heinen & Hopman, Alfa Laval, Hatenboer Water, Rohde & Schwarz are a small selection of the Dutch subcontractors who have taken part in this project. www.damen.com

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Metal Shark debuts catamaran expedition vessel USA-based Metal Shark has introduced a 48-metre aluminium catamaran expedition yacht.

The new Metal Shark M48, named “Magnet,” is the first build in the company’s ‘Metal Shark Yachts’ portfolio of high-speed, long range catamaran expedition yachts, which was recently announced. The new lineup also include the M30 (30 metres) and M70 (70 metres).

Magnet is the first-ever private recreational yacht built by Metal Shark, a diversified builder of aluminium and steel vessels for military and commercial operators worldwide. The vessel is also notable for being built in the United States, constructed from start to finish at Metal Shark’s Franklin, Louisiana shipyard.

The three-decked welded-aluminium craft features design work completed by Metal Shark’s in-house engineering team, utilising an Incat Crowther catamaran hull form optimized for maximum speed and range. The vessel weighs in with a lightship displacement of 275 metric tons and can carry up to 29,000 US gallons (110,000 litres) of fuel. Powered by twin 2,600-BHP (1,939 Kw) MTU IMO Tier III diesel engines, Magnet boasts a globe-spanning 11,000 nautical mile range at a 10-knot cruise, with reserve. In sea trials the new craft has reached a top speed of 27 knots.

“This is not by any stretch a typical yacht,” explained the vessel’s owner, George Wallner. “I wanted a serious, rugged, purpose-built vessel capable of reaching the remote, unspoiled destinations that you can’t get to with an airplane. With Magnet, I can travel quickly to faraway places, and everyone onboard can enjoy the adventure. Upon arrival, we can stay for extended periods, independently and comfortably, without reliance on a large crew. I also wanted to be able to work on board, continue with my product development and testing activities at sea. The catamaran format offers ample room and a uniquely stable platform for that. I worked closely with Metal Shark over an extended period to execute my vision, to create this tool for recreational exploration, and it is very rewarding to finally experience Magnet underway. So far, I have been most impressed by this vessel’s stability, even at speed in heavy seas.”

“Like Magnet, each of our catamaran Metal Shark Yachts have been designed to liberate owners from the fuss of yachting and to eliminate adherence to rigid itineraries, opening up new opportunities for exploration,” said Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard. “With Magnet you can run from New York to Miami in under 48 hours, you can cross oceans at 17 knots, and you can comfortably enjoy long-range global travel without refueling concerns. At anchor, a Metal Shark Yacht becomes its own island of self-sustaining independence, with the autonomy to stay on station for extended periods.”

Thanks to its catamaran footprint, M48 offers significantly more deck space than a monohull yacht of comparable length, creating vast spaces for entertaining along with ample storage space for tenders, toys, or other payloads. A 5,000 lb.-capacity submersible stern platform and a 3,500 lb. aft deck crane easily launch, retrieve, and stow tenders, toys, and cargo.

Machinery spaces, crew quarters, refrigerated storage, a wine cellar, and a complete work shop are all accommodated belowdecks within the twin catamaran hulls, opening up all three decks for owners and guests. On the main and mid decks, the elevated interior imparts the feel of a high-end city apartment as opposed to the far more enclosed spaces of a typical yacht. Large, panoramic windows and understated finishes put the emphasis on the journey, offering airy, uncluttered surroundings and sweeping views of the outside environment.

An expansive upper-level sun deck, generously appointed with wraparound seating and lounges, al fresco dining areas, and a bar with refrigerators and an ice maker, also features a forward flybridge which offers superb visibility from its elevated position. A large fixed shade provides comfort while also accommodating an integrated 12-panel, 4.2 kW solar power generation array, and a spacious aft lounge area beckons sun lovers.

Magnet has been configured with a master cabin, a VIP cabin, and three guest cabins. However, each offering in the Metal Shark Yachts lineup may be fully customized to suit the unique requirements of the owner. With its enormous 393 meters (4,230 square feet) of interior living space, M48 can easily be configured to accommodate additional guests or crew.

Magnet’s appearance is as unique as her mission. The vessel’s assertive styling incorporates chiseled lines inspired by Metal Shark’s military patrol vessels, which are designed to achieve modern naval visual deterrent requirements.

Hardware is rugged and overbuilt. Angular brows lend an imposing look while shielding the vessel’s expansive windows from the sun. Exposed architectural elements and an industrial-grade finish, designed for extended operation with minimum maintenance, combine to convey the vessel’s no-nonsense demeanor.

“M48 and our broader line of Metal Shark Yachts defy simple categorization,” said Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard.

“While they are expedition yachts by definition, we focused on capability instead of trying to reach new levels of haute couture interior design. A Metal Shark Yacht offers a different type of experience by enabling owners to go farther, faster, without refueling, by extending the amount of time they can operate autonomously, by reducing reliance on crew, and by maximizing the enjoyment of the yachting experience by minimizing maintenance concerns.”

“Metal Shark’s entry into the yacht market presents owners in the United States with a tremendous opportunity to have their yacht built at a U.S. shipyard by a builder with an extensively proven track record, said Metal Shark Key Account Manager Billy Smith. “From the peace of mind and the convenience of domestic production to the many benefits of aluminium construction, we’re bringing a fresh alternative to the yacht market. This unique new class of vessel is not just a concept, but a proven craft that has been built, tested, and is on the water today.” www.metalsharkboats.com

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Teignbridge propels the Mayflower autonomous ship Teignbridge Propellers Int. Ltd. is proudly supporting the pioneering Mayflower Autonomous Ship with a propulsion system to safely propel her on her missions around the world.

Designed and built to cross oceans autonomously and gather vital environmental data, the Mayflower Autonomous Ship (MAS) needs to have reliability at its core. Launched last week into the Plymouth Sound, MAS will spend the next 6 months in sea trials and undertaking a number of research missions, before attempting to cross the Atlantic in Spring 2021.

ProMare – the marine research non-profit behind MAS – has stipulated that all partner companies involved in the project are experts in their field.

These partners must deliver the optimum products that can be relied upon despite the harshest ocean conditions. Teignbridge is proud to be one of those trusted partners who were selected to support a world-leading innovation project such as the Mayflower Autonomous Ship.

As a Devon based company, we are proud to have provided the propulsion package including a custom-designed four-blade Hi Skew propeller for this feat of pioneering engineering. Teignbridge has unrivalled propeller design expertise supported by advanced software and hardware which is available to all of our customers regardless of the design of vessel and voyage profile. However, this is not the first autonomous vessel our team have supplied lately. Electric propulsion systems are becoming more and more frequent - we look forward to many more projects like this in future.

Mark Phare Sales and Marketing Director of Teignbridge has stated: “This is a fantastic project that speaks to the future of marine exploration and the transformation of the shipping industry at large. Powered by AI and the energy from the sun, the new Mayflower provides a cost-effective and flexible platform for gathering data about the health of the ocean.

Teignbridge is renowned for pioneering innovation and cutting edge technological solutions in the propulsion field. Naturally, we are very proud to have supported and to be associated with this project. We will be watching the progress of the MAS with great interest as she sets sails into the future.”

For live information about MAS, and the people, companies and technologies behind it, please visit: https://mas400.com www.teignbridge.co.uk

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S T O R Y

WesCom Signal and Rescue’s advice to stay compliant as MCA extensions to come to an end

Covid-19 presented many worries globally, therefore planning ahead to ensure vessels are compliant to safely operate at sea is of paramount importance for the ship owner and crew onboard.

The pandemic will undoubtedly continue to affect rules and regulations across country borders and international waters. The Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) has shared updated guidance on Marine Information Note (MIN) 612 (Amendment 3) about Covid-related extensions in UK Flag ship safety surveys and safety equipment servicing.

The notice has been shared with all Surveyors, Recognised Organisations, Certifying Authorities, Authorised Persons, Ship Operators, Ship Owners, Masters, Officers and Crew, notifying them that the potential three-month extension on safety surveys and up to six-month extension on Life-saving equipment has now come to an end. The new update means that any safety equipment with an extension date past 16 September 2020 will be required to be replaced or serviced, in line with UK and global regulations.

Previously, there have been difficulties revalidating certificates and potential problems within the supply chain for replacing mandated goods, including pyrotechnic distress signals. With the announcement, WesCom Signal and Rescue urges the industry to review its safety equipment onboard and replace life-saving goods – such as pyrotechnics and liferafts – within the deadlines, as well as organising for safety surveys to be undertaken.

It is expected that there will be an extensive backlog of requests and orders incoming from contacts around the world, and it is therefore imperative that stock is requested at the earliest possible instance. There will be extra demand for replacement Comet and Pains Wessex SOLAS pyrotechnic marine distress signals.

Safety is of paramount importance when on the water. Pyrotechnics and safety distress signals can mean the difference between life and death and it is critical to ensure they are well maintained and compliant with regulations. As the most internationally known and recognised distress signal globally, pyrotechnics help increase the chance of survival in an emergency situation, by helping to alert the distress and pinpointing the location of the emergency or distressed vessel and person/s. Evaluating current distress signals and their expiry dates should be adhered to, and recognition of the expiry date should be a priority, as per the mandated legislation.

WesCom Signal and Rescue has been at the forefront of the industry for more than 100 years and always ensures that its trusted network of global distributors are consistently informed about new guidance and industry updates. It works closely with its network to meet deadlines and demands, and has been actively encouraging suppliers and distributors to review the expiry dates of their products and stock, and to place orders at their earliest convenience and where possible, sooner than usual to allow for longer lead-times.

The firm stresses the importance of forward planning for ordering pyrotechnics and other dated, mandated items, to mitigate any possible supply delays in the future.

WesCom Signal and Rescue is the world’s leading marine distress signal manufacturer with the largest international network of distributors; Comet, Pains Wessex, Oroquieta and Aurora. WesCom Signal and Rescue’s worldwide comprehensive range of marine distress signals and safety systems are trusted for their reliability by the world’s navies, lifeboat and rescue services, merchant fleets and airlines, as well as by fishing vessels and leisure craft. WesCom Signal and Rescue sells to the commercial and leisure marine market and are always at the forefront of campaigning for improved global marine safety regulations to ensure the safety of mariners throughout the world. www.wescomsignal.com

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Van Oord oyster housing for Borssele V Van Oord, as part of the Two Towers consortium, is to install eight reef structures with oysters underwater at the Borssele V offshore wind site in the Dutch sector of the North Sea. The project aims to investigate methods for the development of oyster reefs at offshore locations as part of a research programme relating to the restoration of European flat oyster beds, and will use an eco-friendly scour protection called Ecoscour.

Specifically, the project will test different outplacement methods for live European flat oysters on the two scour protections of Borssele Site V by installing eight different structures offshore to determine which method works best for the long-term establishment of oyster reefs on scour protections. On the structures, oysters will be placed in various ways such as contained, loose and pre-settled. “Additionally, the research team wants to gain knowledge about what the most effective life stage of a European flat oyster is for installation on the scour protection: for instance adult oysters or juvenile oysters/spat or a combination of both. By means of our Ecoscour research programme and the installation of these eight new reef structures offshore, the team aims to learn a great deal about developing oyster reefs in the North Sea on a large scale�, a Van Oord spokesperson commented.

On the Ecoscour project, Van Oord is working together with Wageningen Marine Research, HZ University of Applied Sciences, Bureau Waardenburg and the Netherlands Institute for Sea Research.

Borssele V, located some 20 kilometres off the Dutch coast, consists of two MHI Vestas 9.5 MW wind turbines and is designated as an innovation site within the Borssele Wind Farm Zone.

The Two Towers consortium, consisting of Van Oord, Investri Offshore, and Green Giraffe, won the tender for the development of the site in April 2018.

Along with the Ecoscour programme, the Borssele V site is also introducing various advanced technologies for demonstration and commercial application in future offshore wind farms.

The technologies demonstrated at Borssele V include the Slip Joint foundation, Thermally Sprayed Aluminium (TSA), Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) optimisation, oval cable entry holes, and Eco-friendly scour protection. www.vanoord.com

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Cornwall IFCA increases the

capability to map seagrass in

protected areas

Cornwall Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority has recently taken delivery of a Scientific Echo Sounder to help them manage seagrass conservation.

The new BioSonics MX Scientific Fisheries Echo Sounder will complement IFCA’s equipment capability in conserving seagrass in marine protected areas.

Colin Trundle, Principal Scientific Officer at Cornwall IFCA,commented: “We are looking at mapping the extent and density of seagrass in four marine protected areas in Cornwall, to ensure our management is appropriate and effective.

“Previously, we had to rely on 2D imagery and the new equipment will give us the 3D capability to see the canopy height and density, and also estimate the sea bed substrate type as well.”

Seagrass is vital for climate change as well as being an essential marine habitat. It has a considerable part to play in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

The Biosonics MX Aquatic Habitat Echo Sounder, supplied by Hayle-based survey support company Swathe Services, will be used to simultaneously map submerged seagrass vegetation as well as collect bathymetry data on the seabed and classify substrate.

BioSonics scientific echosounders provide an in-depth understanding of the underwater environment for assessment, research and management. https://swathe-services.com

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Tekmar Energy

secures multiple cable protection system

contracts in China

Tekmar Energy Limited, a Tekmar Group Company, is pleased to announce multiple contracts to supply their cable protection systems for the Sheyang, Qidong, and Dalian Zhuanghe offshore wind farm projects in China.

The offshore wind farms have a combined total output of over 300MW, and once constructed will power over 150,000 households in the Jiangsu and Liaoning Provinces.

Tekmar Energy’s cable protection systems will be deployed to protect subsea array and export cables as they transition from the seabed into the foundations.

Jack Simpson, Director of Tekmar Energy said: ‚“We are delighted to secure additional supply contracts in China. Tekmar Energy has now supplied our cable protection systems and hang-off assemblies to 15 offshore wind farm projects in the region. The new awards reflect the hard work of our team in Shanghai, China, and demonstrate the industries continued confidence in our subsea products”. www.tekmargroup.com

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New UUV from BAE

BAE Systems launch new unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV) portfolio - the Riptide UUV-12.

The vehicle is the company’s 12-inch diameter entry into the medium UUV market, joining three small UUV variants.

“The Riptide UUV-12 system significantly extends the Riptide family of UUVs by taking us into the medium UUV market,” commented chief scientist at BAE Systems’ FAST Labs research and development organization, Jeff Smith. “With this medium-size platform, we are strategically aligning our modular, open architecture-based UUV platform to meet rapidly expanding applications and requirements.”

Riptide UUV-12 can adapt to meet a variety of mission needs, including those that require larger and more power-hungry payloads. When integrated with the company’s mission system payloads, it can deliver critical capabilities including combinations of Radio Frequency (RF) signal collection, RF electronic warfare, active acoustics, acoustic Identification Friend or Foe, acoustic and RF communications, mission autonomy, and navigation.

The Riptide UUVs perform at great depth, at long range and high endurance to meet various commercial and military requirements. www.baesystems.com

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C-Innovation selects Sonardyne technology spread for its Brazilian fleet Integrated marine services company C-Innovation (C-I) has chosen a suite of Sonardyne’s underwater positioning and navigation systems to support its operations offshore Brazil.

Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) on board six ROV support vessels (RSVs) in the country will be equipped with Sonardyne inertial, gyrocompass, and Doppler technologies, as well as hybrid acoustic-inertial systems.

Specifically, C-I has ordered SPRINT inertial navigation systems (INS), a Lodestar attitude and heading reference system (AHRS), Syrinx Doppler velocity logs (DVLs) and Sonardyne’s hybrid acoustic-inertial underwater vehicle navigation instruments, SPRINT-Nav. C-I has also ordered a quantity of Sonardyne’s Compatt 6+ transponders and Wideband Sub-Mini 6+ (WSM 6+) transponder/responders for tracking structures and vehicles.

Most of the vessels (including Bongo, Santos Service, Joe Griffin and Deborah Kay) will be working for Petrobras, and one vessel (Cabo Frio) will be working for Karoon Energy. The scope of work is subsea inspection, maintenance and repair operations (IMR) and ROV support.

Five of the six vessels, which start contracts in Brazil this year, are already equipped with Sonardyne’s Ranger 2 Ultra-Short BaseLine (USBL) positioning system, which is used for both dynamic positioning (DP) reference and deep water target tracking.

SPRINT-Nav combines Sonardyne’s SPRINT sensor, Syrinx 600 kHz DVL and a high accuracy intelligent pressure sensor packaged in a compact deep-rated housing that’s simple to integrate on both remote and autonomous underwater platforms. The tight integration of inertial sensor and raw acoustic aiding data at a low level enables SPRINT-Nav to regularly exceed the most stringent of positioning specifications, making it an ideal choice for vehicle guidance, station keeping and long endurance navigation.

Tomás Peixoto, Survey Manager at C-Innovation, an affiliate of Edison Chouest Offshore and its family of companies, says, “We’re pleased to continue the relationship we have with Sonardyne, building on a long-standing partnership and with the local technical support that they offer here in Brazil. With these latest orders, we’re ensuring our fleet continues to provide unmatched services to our customers.”

Speaking from Sonardyne’s base of operations in Rio das Ostras, Brazil, Sonardyne Sales & Applications Manager Andre Moura, says, “With the region’s majors committing to new and expanded field developments, the number, scope and value of engineering, procurement, installation and construction (EPIC) contracts placed here in recent months has risen significantly. The versatility and consistent high performance offered by our solutions means that C-Innovation can be confident they will see a return on their equipment investment throughout the life of the projects. That confidence, together with our in-country servicing and support, in turn helps to underpin their ongoing success in the market here.” www.sonardyne.com https://c-innovation.com

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New build 14.4m

Landing Craft

PDL Marine are pleased to announce securing an order for a 14.4m Landing craft. The aluminium vessel has been purposely designed to suit the client’s specific requirements such as cargo loads, shallow draft and the ability to carry passengers as and when required.

Working in partnership with Tony Kortens from Landing Craft UK, PDL Marine were approached to offer a vessel outside of the normal remits of a standard vessel due to a variety of tasks the vessel is expected to undertake. Tony Kortens said ‘‘we have worked with PDL Marine of a few projects recently and found that they always respond quickly with good workable solutions and therefore it made sense to task them with this project and see what they would come up with, as per usual they have not disappointed and gave our clients exactly what they asked for and within a short timeframe.’’

Designed by Bruce Roberts Europe, the vessel is to be fitted with twin 300HP OXE diesel outboards, a cargo load of 8 tons, two x 2000 litre fuel tanks, extra-long ramp and a draft of 0.5m and will be registered in Ireland. Edgar Van Smaalen of Bruce Roberts said ‘’I always look forward to the challenges of designing a vessel that has specific requirements that are outside of the norm and I am looking forward to seeing this vessel completed’’ PDL Marine pride themselves in being versatile, thinking outside of the box and responding quickly when a client approaches us as was the case with this vessel.

David Rutter, the business manager at PDL said ‘’it’s always good news securing an order especially during these difficult times that is causing so much uncertainty not just within the industry. Signing off during maritime UK Week was an additional bonus and we look forward to completing the build and delivering it to the client.’’

PDL Marine are based in Trafalgar Wharf in Portsmouth and specialise in vessel builds up to 24m in length in aluminium or steel with a wide and varied portfolio. www.pdlmarine.com

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Damen delivers ASD Tug 2813 to Con.Tug in Italy Damen Shipyards Group has delivered an ASD Tug 2813 to Con.Tug in Italy. The vessel, named Gioia Star, will operate in Gioia Tauro, one of the most important transhipment ports in the Mediterranean.

Tailored standardisation Con.Tug – a joint venture between Scafi and TIL – ordered the new tug from Damen in January this year. The speed of the delivery has been facilitated by Damen’s practice of building standardised vessels in series and keeping them in stock, ready for order.

As well as ensuring quick delivery, this also guarantees Damen’s clients receipt of proven vessels.

Though a standard model, Con.Tug has selected a number of options for its new vessel, including FiFi 1 firefighting capabilities as well oil recovery capability.

Next generation tugs The ASD Tug 2813 is one of Damen’s next generation of tugs. Each of the vessels in this series is composed of new innovations and the further evolution of existing technology. The tugs focus on delivering increased safety, sustainability, reliability and efficiency – including cost-efficiency over the lifetime of the vessel. These factors were amongst the reasons that Con.Tug selected Damen when ordering a new tug.

The 85 tonne bollard pull ASD 2813 features a smart layout with increased power on a very compact vessel, thanks to the significant level of stability provided by the hull.

Antonio Marte, Damen area manager, says: “The port of Gioia Tauro is a very important harbour for the Mediterranean region. Thanks to the recent important investment made in the container terminal, large 24000 TEU container ships can call at this port regularly. With this it’s crucial to have a highly reliable and top performance tug, which ensures safe operations and, at the same time, maximum uptime of the terminals”.

Connected & sustainable The vessel, like all those in the series, is designed to be ready for IMO Tier III regulations. Compliance with the regulations is easily achieved with the retrofit of a Damen modular NOX reduction system. This is one of the many things Damen has introduced as part of its aim to become the world’s most sustainable shipbuilder.

The next generation tugs also have the capability to be digitally connected, enabling remote monitoring, which can lead to preventive maintenance and smarter, more efficient sailing and lower fuel consumption. www.damen.com

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Seaspan returns to Sanmar for fleet expansion to service Vancouver market Sanmar recently announced the delivery of the exBogacay VIII to Seaspan of Canada; which has been renamed the Seaspan Raptor. Mobilisation to Vancouver has already commenced, under the direction of Redwise Maritime Services of the Netherlands, with arrival expected in late this month.

The Seaspan Raptor was built in 2015 and initially operated by Sanmar in its own fleet. It has recently undergone a full docking and undergone modifications to meet both Seaspan and Canadian flag requirements. It will be followed in second quarter 2021 by a second tug, a sister vessel built in 2016 and also previously operated in the Sanmar fleet in Turkey.

Both tugs are examples of the RAmparts 2400SX tug designed exclusively for Sanmar Shipyards by the reputed Vancouver based designer Robert Allan Limited (RAL) and designated the Bogacay Class

by Sanmar. Measuring 24.4m overall length, delivering 75t bollard pull and 13 knots free running speed, these state of the art tugs are escort rated and feature Class 1 fire-fighting capability.

The Seaspan Raptor and its sister will join a number of other Sanmar built tugs in the Seaspan fleet delivered between 2010 and 2012 and still performing admirably in and around Vancouver for Seaspan (Seaspan Raven, Eagle, Osprey and Kestrel). These earlier tugs are themselves sisters and represent examples of the RAstar 2800 model, again designed by RAL for Sanmar and designated Terminal class; in this case each providing 70t bollard pull.

“These are the 5th and 6th tugs Seaspan has acquired from Sanmar, a world-leading builder of tugs designed by Vancouver-based and internationally recognized naval architects, Robert Allan Ltd. These powerful tugs are an example of Seaspan’s continued long-term commitment to service our ship docking customers in a market where the average ship size continues to increase over time,” said Frank Butzelaar, CEO, Seaspan Marine Transportation.

“We feel privileged to see Seaspan, a major partner in the Pacific Northwest marine economy, coming back to Sanmar. They have been working with Sanmar tugs for the last 10 years and this return provides testament to their satisfaction by every means. With these latest deliveries, Seaspan not only have the opportunity to operate our flagship Bogacay series tugs but also experience the improvements developed across the range by Sanmar since then,” commented Ruchan Civgin, Commercial Director, Sanmar Shipyards. www.sanmar.com.tr

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Damen signs with Vletterlieden for multi-purpose Stan Tug 1004 Damen Shipyards Group has recently signed a contract with Corps van Vletterlieden for a Stan Tug 1004. The company will use the Stan Tug for a wide range of tasks, including mooring, supply, crew transfer and diving support, in the Port of IJmuiden in the north of the Netherlands.

Having signed the contract on October 2nd, Damen expects to deliver the vessel in January next year. The speed of the delivery is facilitated by Damen’s practice of building standard vessels in series. As well as ensuring fast delivery, this also guarantees the customer of a reliable product.

Despite the standardised nature of its vessels, Damen is able to tailor them to its clients’ requirements with options. In the case of the Stan Tug 1004 for Vletterlieden, this includes installation of a crane, a generator set and coupling winches. These will enable the boat to fulfil its multi-purpose functionality.

Damen sales manager Vincent de Maat said, “This is Vletterlieden’s first Damen vessel and we’ve been discussing the possibility of delivering a boat to them for some time, so I’m really pleased with this contract. We are looking forward to working with the client as we make the vessel ready for their needs in the coming months.”

Having been built at Damen Shipyards Changde in China, the Stan Tug 1004 is now at Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld in the Netherlands where she will be outfitted with the options ready for delivery to the client early next year.

The Damen Stan Tug 1004 is known for its superb manoeuvrability and outstanding handling characteristics. The vessel incorporates the latest hull and skeg designs and developments in fender, fairlead and winch design. www.damen.com

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UK’s first sea-going electric ferry Plymouth Boat Trips and Voyager Marine, Cornwall have launched e-Voyager, the UK’s first sea-going electric ferry.

Designed and developed in partnership with the University of Plymouth, the University of Exeter, Teignbridge Propellers, MarRi-Uk and EV Parts, the green ferry will now undergo rigorous running trials, before carrying passengers on Plymouth Boat Trips’ ferry routes from April 2021.

The project has been funded through the £1.4M Clean Maritime Call: a Maritime Research and Innovation UK (MarRI-UK) initiative supported by the Department for Transport (DfT) and launched to support the UK’s goal of zero emission shipping.

Project leader for Plymouth Boat Trips and Voyager Marine, Andy Hurley, said: “It’s hugely exciting to see the launch of e-Voyager and the result of such a progressive collaboration to create a cleaner and more sustainable future for the marine industry. Through developing the technology and maritime applications, Voyager Marine is helping to place Plymouth and the South West as UK leaders in the conversion and new build of zero-carbon, fully electric commercial vessels.”

Partnerships and funding Support from the universities came via Environmental Futures & Big Data Impact Lab, a £6.4M project to support small businesses, and the £4M Marine Business Technology Centre, both part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

Dr Richard Pemberton, lecturer in Mechanical and Marine Engineering Design at the University of Plymouth added: “Through our diverse mix of staff and specialisms, the University of Plymouth has supported Plymouth Boat Trips and its partners in both data analysis and regulatory advice. The University firmly believes that the work conducted on e-Voyager will pave the way for larger scale innovation towards meeting the Government’s target of a 50% reduction in emissions from the maritime sector by 2050.”

Technology and design Engineering technology company, EV Parts, designed the battery storage and motor installation. An advanced electric motor, together with flyby-wire controls, have replaced the traditional diesel engine, a process which will be directly transferable in under 24m commercial vessels.

The motors, energy storage, control and charging systems are now being tested in a real-world environment, enabling the team to gain approval from regulatory bodies so they can be used in vessels across the sector and carry passengers.

Through duty cycle modelling and advanced simulation of propeller performance, Teignbridge Propellers worked on the project to ensure every kilowatt hour of battery capacity is put to efficient use, ensuring maximum vessel range and safe and effective handling.

Mark Phare, Sales and Marketing Director said: “This pioneering project provides an ideal platform to explore the myriad technical challenges associated with the industry’s accelerating move to full electric propulsion and a low carbon future.”

Commercial benefits Repurposed, Nissan Leaf batteries, used in e-Voyager, mean low maintenance and present clear commercial benefits for businesses in the marine sector. The University of Plymouth’s scientists carried out research during the build, measuring emissions including noise pollution, air pollution and fuel consumption.

Brian Lambert, a University of Exeter Research Fellow in the Marine Business Technology Centre project joined the consortium to shape the bid into MarRi-UK. He and Professor Chris Smith worked closely with the team, bringing expertise in project management and innovation to support the development of e-Voyager. The team at Exeter are using their knowledge to investigate safe charging solutions for marine applications, including deposition of nanomaterials and inductive charging technologies.

Charging points Plymouth City Council will install three 22 kWh chargers on the Barbican Landing Stage, and using this system, e-Voyager will take under three hours to achieve a full charge. The vessel will be charged overnight when berthing, providing enough power to run for a full day and complete its journey on a single charge. If required, the boat can simply plug in and recharge between runs as passengers embark. The council is working with local ferry companies to further develop a charging infrastructure for marine transport in the city.

Green marine future e-Voyager will be the first vessel to have been recognised by both the MCA and a Classification Society, for satisfying the exacting standards of both organisations. The partners are now progressing to the conversion of larger passenger vessels in Plymouth Boat Trips’ fleet of cruise boats and ferries, along with the new build of similar vessels. www.plymouthboattrips.co.uk

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Southsea gets the go ahead for VSBW VSBW, a joint venture between VolkerStevin and Boskalis Westminster, has commenced on the Southsea Coastal Scheme, UK. The first phases of construction works began with the establishment of the temporary site compound adjacent to Pier Road.

Completed works will include the establishment of site fencing, creating a hardstanding, installation of services and placement of the site office units. This temporary site will be used for duration of the scheme and will be co-located with a public liaison/drop-in office.

A site working area will also be established in Clarence Pier car park, to provide access to the Frontage 1 working area. Once the site working areas are established, site surveys will be undertaken prior to breaking ground.

VSBW will also work on the establishment of ramped access onto the foreshore for construction plant. Excavators will be used to remove the existing revetment stone, in preparation for the installation of the new sheet pile walls.

Once the revetment has been removed, a dredging vessel will be used to rainbow gravel material onto the beach, in order to develop a temporary working platform to bring the next stages of the construction operations above the tidal zone. On completion of the temporary working platform, construction of the new walls will commence, with installation of the sheet piles. www.volkerstevin.co.uk

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BMT to support the Western Australian, Department of Transport’s maintenance dredging program

Driving environmental value and risk-informed decision making will ensure that maintenance dredging continues into the future to sustain the Port’s and Ocean’s critical depths. BMT’s premier reputation in delivering Long-Term Dredge Management Plans, Ocean Disposal activities and Long-Term Asset Management Programs in Australasia, and across the Asia Pacific region, have been delivered over the lifetime of several Sea Dumping Permits (SDP) issued by the Commonwealth Department of the Environment and Energy.

BMT recently welcomed confirmation by the Western Australian Government that it had successfully bid to provide consultancy services to the State’s Maintenance Dredging Program.

The company brings over 20-years of innovative solutions and commitment to the maintenance of Western Australian’s coastal facilities and protection of its pristine marine environment.

“BMT had previously been contracted for project management of the Tel: +44(0) 2392 472710 maintenance dredging programs and we are thrilled to remain the trusted Mob: +44(0) 7850 473713 partner for our expertise and experience in this very niche field,” BMT, Portfolio E-Mail: info@fdsukltd.com Managing Director, Environment & Infrastructure, Shane Amaratunga said.

Web: www.fdsukltd.com “As we see an increase in the use of these waterways, the maintenance dredging works delivered by the Department of Transport are vital for providing safe navigation and access for both public users and commercial fleets,” he Diver R.O.V. & Crane Operated Dredging Systems. Multipurpose & continued.

Mini dredging systems for the removal of fines, silt, mud’s, drill cuttings, “We will continue to provide strategic advice to grow BMT’s regional portfolio, sand, grit, gravel, shingle, shale & general debris. Suitable for confined space operations or locations where access is a problem. All on-shore as we look to expand our footprint in the Ports, Coastal and Ocean civil applications. Shallow & deepwater offshore support operations. infrastructure industries,” he concluded.

Renewables. Complete ready to use self operational systems available “We look forward to supporting the Department of Transport and key for use worldwide. Stillage packed or deepwater offshore containerised stakeholders to deliver and influence sustainable and solution-based outcomes,” units. Long & short term rentals. Sales. Wide scope of operations.

BMT, Managing Director Environment, Australia, Dr Philip Haines, commented.

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IMCA PUBLISHES BASIC TRAINING DOCUMENT AIMED AT OFFSHORE RENEWABLES SECTOR

Andy Goldsmith

The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) has published ‘Basic Safety Training Requirements for Personnel Employed in the Offshore Renewable Energy Sector’ (IMCA C 018).

It provides standard basic safety training requirements for inclusion at contract awards stage covering those employed on-board vessels during the construction and maintenance support phases of offshore renewable energy projects. The new guidance document incorporates an invaluable matrix to aid clarity for the sector.

The ‘Basic Safety Training Matrix’ defines the minimum level of health and safety training, and medical fitness needed to work on, and from, vessels engaged on an offshore renewable energy project. It was designed by a working group of IMCA’s Marine Renewable Energy Committee chaired by Marc van Dorth of Seaway 7. The group also included members from IMCA’s Diving, Marine, ROV and Offshore Survey Committees and the document is published as an IMCA Competence & Training Guideline.

As Captain Andy Goldsmith, Technical Adviser - Marine at IMCA explained: “All workers and mariners require a basic level of training prior to the commencement of work in the offshore renewable energy industry. The new document is designed to eliminate confusion and duplication of basic training which can not only be costly in terms of both time and financial investment, but also affects the morale of marine contractor personnel.

“The matrix, which was finalised in consultation with major developers such as Ørsted and Vattenfall greatly aids clarity for the sector. It ensures that clearly defined safety measures can be put in place right at the start of every offshore renewable energy project by showing the basic safety training requirements dependent on where an offshore worker is located.

“The working patterns and environment for personnel employed in a vessel are significantly different from personnel deployed directly from onshore to an offshore structure. Therefore, basic safety training requirements cannot be generalised and are different for both groups of personnel.

“All the basic safety training courses that marine personnel and other personnel employed on a vessel need to undertake are listed; something that has, until now, been subject to potential duplication.”

IMCA stresses that the basic safety training is only one element of an individual’s competency requirement. The matrix does not detail training required by individuals to be competent in the role for which they have been employed. This level of training should be identified in a detailed Competence Assurance framework addressed by a company Competence Assurance scheme.

IMCA C 018 is available free of charge to IMCA members. Non-Members can purchase the guidance for £25 (+VAT) from IMCA at www.imca-int.com.

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Halter Marine partners with local college to launch apprenticeship program

Mississippi, US, based shipbuilder Halter Marine is aiming to create jobs, and fill them through its apprentice training partnership with Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC).

The apprenticeship program is designed in three components - on-the-job training, classroom training and a progressive wage increase as participants reach set milestones. It offers training in the craft labor fields of welding, ship fitting, pipe fitting, pipe welding and electrical. With the exception of pipe welding, each of the apprenticeship programs is four years in length while pipe welding is three years. Ten students are enrolled in each of the five disciplines for a total of 50 apprentices.

“Because of our contract with the U.S. Coast Guard to build the new Polar Security Cutter, we must double our workforce, and we can’t do it alone,” said Bob Merchent, President and CEO of Halter Marine. “We need this apprenticeship program, and the partnership of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. The Polar Security Cutter program is making us more sustainable for the future and that of our employees who will have job security for many years.”

The apprentices are following maritime technology curriculum approved by the Mississippi Community College Board. The curriculum comprises 10 to 12 classes in support of their craft, plus management/leadership classes. The classes are being taught as noncredit, workforce classes, but the apprentices will have the opportunity to convert their noncredit classes into credit through competency-based exams.

“The concentration of a skilled shipbuilding workforce on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is to U.S. shipbuilding what Annapolis is to the U.S. Navy,” said Kevin Amis, Executive Vice President of Operations for Halter Marine. “All of these roles will prepare us for building the Polar Security Cutters. This is the right time to train workers in Jackson County and along the Gulf Coast.”

The apprenticeship program is a new workforce-training model for Halter Marine to ensure consistently high-quality shipbuilders, enabling Halter Marine to successfully pursue federal shipbuilding contracts. Apprentices will be assigned to employee mentors to guide them throughout the program.

“Halter Marine plans to begin new registered apprentices each fall for several years,” said Gayle Brown, MGCCC grants and special projects developer. “Additionally, six other crafts have been approved by the U.S. Department of Labor for Halter Marine to apprentice, so when the company is ready, the college will stand up those programs as well.”

The demand for skilled labor is increasing in Mississippi, said Tonya Neely, director of the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program and Business Engagement for the Mississippi Community College Board. Not only is this program beneficial for apprentices and Halter Marine, this program will strengthen Mississippi’s pipeline of skilled workers and contribute to creating a thriving Mississippi economy, she said.

“The new program at Halter Marine will increase our skilled labor pipeline and provide Mississippians with an opportunity for long-term career growth in a good paying job,” Neely said. “The partnership with Halter Marine demonstrates what is possible when companies think differently about recruiting and training new team member. Apprenticeships are a proven workforce development strategy that offers employment opportunities for Mississippians that allows them to learn new skills while earning a good paying job.” www.vthm.com

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Port of London brings the latest technology to University College London The Port of London (PLA) Hydrographic department recently teamed up with Unmanned Survey Solutions (USS) to provide groundbreaking educational support to University College London’s (UCL) IHO CAT A course in Hydrographic Surveying.

The PLA have supported the University for many years by providing lectures in current Hydrographic techniques and equipment as well as supporting their student field projects.

However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the final element of this year’s support had to be conducted virtually. The PLA, in conjunction with the USS and UCL, devised a two-week schedule which incorporated a combination of manned and unmanned survey tasks to bring the very latest industry solutions to MSc students.

“Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs), have a key role to play in the future of surveying” says John Dillon-Leetch, Port Hydrographer at the Port of London Authority. He went on to say “With the same sonar system technology as fitted to our larger surveying vessels, Maplin and Thame but at a fraction of the size of the size, this remote unmanned vessel can access areas that weren’t accessible before to this level of survey capability, changing the way we survey the riverbed. It is battery powered so releases no carbon emissions and is robust enough to work in rough offshore and coastal conditions.”

Using remote access capability to onboard systems, students from as far away as China, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore received daily interactive broadcasts from the Hydrographic teams aboard the PLA manned vessels M/V Maplin and M/V Thame to direct and participate in the project work. During the final week of operations, they were also able to remotely pilot USS’s Accession 350 Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) and send it off on pre-programmed survey missions to gather high resolution bathymetry. As future hydrographic surveyors, this was a real insight into how the industry is tackling the challenges which COVID-19 is having on daily survey operations. www.pla.co.uk

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Scott Taylor, Head of Commercial, Maersk Training UK

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Maersk Training launches training management app

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UK-based, Maersk Training has announced the launch of its upgraded Training Management Solution (TMS) with the aim to improve the training management for companies dealing with fewer headcount and remote working, amid the Coronavirus pandemic.

The software which is divided into two parts, a mobile app aimed at delegates and a web-based application for the administrators and training facilitators, offers a fully customised solution to meet the global training needs whilst removing the intermediary and reducing administrative time and costs.

The mobile app provides a full overview of the employee’s individual training requirements, from training due to expire to current courses due to be completed, whilst offering a training record at their fingertips accessible anywhere in the world.

The web application supplies the employers with a customised view and management of individual employee’s training matrix, simplifying the administrative process including booking and cancellation system, logistics and cost optimisation at the same time. The application also allows for the upload of financial records ensuring further cost assurance that training is kept within budget.

Maersk Training UK Head of Commercial, Scott Taylor, says, “As our working habits have changed due to the global pandemic, remote employment has become our next normal. Businesses have sadly had to make cuts, so with lower headcounts and more responsibility for surviving employees a solution that offers a saving on cost, time and is contactless with less administrative processes, is something that fits seamlessly into this new business era we enter.”

“The software offers a total training management solution in your hand anywhere at any time and gives delegates an ownership of their development and competence whilst giving employers a total overview of training needs. The software has been recently onboarded by Maersk Drilling and has been a success,” continues Taylor.

Apart from a 360 degree training management solution, TMS provides access to over 500 pre-approved highest quality vendors and Maersk Training’s own cutting-edge facilities as well as opportunity to benefit from Maersk Training’s over 40 years’ experience in handling training management. www.maersktraining.com

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Tekmar Energy

chosen as a trusted

supplier for remedial works in the German

North Sea

Tekmar Energy Limited, a Tekmar Group company, has been chosen as the trusted supplier for a remedial campaign on a major offshore wind farm located in the Sylt Offshore Cluster of the German North Sea.

Tekmar Energy will supply its patented TekLink cable protection systems (CPS) directly to the developer for installation on the Dan Tysk project later this year.

The CPS has been designed to specifically address and overcome key and unexpected as-built conditions faced on the project during the operational phase. This scope of supply further demonstrates the confidence clients have in Tekmar Energy as a market-leading solutions provider.

The CPS will be produced within Tekmar Energy’s UK facility and will utilise the latest design developments. To date, Tekmar Energy has supplied in excess of 8,750 CPS on over 90 offshore wind projects. www.tekmargroup.com

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