NEWSLETTER JUNE 2010

Above, Photos of Island Tiger working on windfarms off UK East Coats July 2010

Safehaven Marine at Seawork 2010.

We were strongly represented at this years Seawork show in Southampton. Island Tiger our Wildcat 53 windfarm support vessel traveled from Dublin after her naming ceremony down the Irish Sea and along the English Channel to Southampton where she was displayed alongside both Interceptor 55's SPITFIRE and PATHFINDER supplied previously 12mths and 6mths ago to the Port of Southampton. We had a big presence with three large vessels and the only pilot vessels on display at the show. Island Tiger was very well received at the show everyone commenting on what a fine looking and well finished vessel she was. It was nice to see both of Southampton's sister ships moored along side.

'ESPINHEIRO' Interceptor 42 pilot launched for the port of Aveiro, Portugal.

Espinheiro has now been launched. The second of two pilot boats being built for the Portuguese ports of Figueira and Averio. Both vessels were ordered after an International tender in 2008. Certainly our Interceptor 55 Atlantida Azul supplied to the Portuguese port of Sines in 2008, and in operation very successfully since no doubt played a part in Safehaven being chosen to supply the two pilot vessels. Both Ports are open to the Bay of Biscay and as such subject to the large swell heights prevalent in the Bay of Biscay during winter months, The Ports needed a vessel with fine seakeeping to deal with the treacherous conditions that exist at the harbour entrance in poor weather, the vessels routinely having to operate in 6-7m swells which can break heavily over the Bar.

Espinheiro is powered by the smaller engine option of Volvo D9 engines rated at 425hp, providing a 23kts maximum speed and an 18-19kts operational speed. During performance trials she performed very well achieving a higher than expected speed.  She proved very quiet with very low noise levels of just 74.5db at 20kts.   Espinheiro is fitted with pilot boarding ladders to facilitate pilot transfer safely.

‘Espinheiro’ will be fitted with Safehaven's proven sacrificial fender system combined with multiple diagonals and lower fender runs fully protecting the vessels hull and deck, the sacrificial fender system utilizes a large 280mm diameter rubber outer fender which fits, like a glove over the crafts 150mm main deck fender at the pilot boats shoulders, and is secured in place with a strap and ratchet system, the fender is very cheap to replace and is proving to have an 18mth to 2 yr lifespan in hard pilot usage, it significantly reduces impact loadings and provided a high level of protection to the pilot boats main fendering and structure. ‘Espinheiro’ is fitted with a Jasons Cradle MOB recovery system which is stored in a recessed locker in the superstructure side, allowing for quick deployment, its positioning is such that then the vessel is positioned up wind of the casualty the vessel will adopt the natural beam on drift attitude that most craft adopt and thereby be allowed to drift down whereby the casualty can be recovered safely with out need for excessive maneuvering risking injury from propellers as is the case with stern mounted recovery platforms.  

Fitted with the smaller engine option of Volvo D9's rated at 425hp on rating 2 for 2000hrs per year, with a 2000 continuous rpm giving a 18-19kts operational speed and a maximum speed of 23kts for 1 in 6hrs, and prove an economical choice for ports with short transit times where a lower speed is acceptable.

'ISLAND TIGER' A WILDCAT 53 / 16m 'WIND FARM SERVICE VESSEL'

Safehaven Marine have launched 'ISLAND TIGER' the first of our new GRP Windfarm Catamarans, the Wildcat 53 / 16m. This is a completely new design based on our highly respected Wildcat 36/40 design, incorporating the same high buoyancy bow, twin chine catamaran hull form that has proved so successful in providing exceptional levels of sea keeping and performance from Safehaven’s Wildcats over the past 5 years. 'ISLAND TIGER' is 16m long (17m inc dive platforms) with a 6m / 20ft  beam and will provide a very stable platform that will suit a multitude of roles from passenger, crew transfer and commercial workboat, but she is specifically designed as a wind farm support vessel. To this end the bow area has been designed to accommodate a specially developed fender system from Ocean 3. The fender design is of high density foam core 300m x 400mm with a heavy 50mm thick rubber  wall to cushion impacts and stresses when the bow is held against windfarm platforms in heavy weather. No stranger to building exceptionally strong GRP hulls, the Wildcat 50 will have the same heavy duty scantlings as tour renowned pilot boats, to provide a vessel that can withstand tough use in the harsh windfarm support vessel environment.

'ISLAND TIGER'  is powered by twin Scania D12 650hp engines driving Ultra Dynamics waterjets and on sea trials achieved a 25kts maximum speed which gives an operational speed of 23kts at 80% of max power on a 25,000kg lightship displacment. Larger engines such as the Scania or Volvo D16 engines can alternately be fitted for higher speeds.

The superstructure is a raised bridge deck design with the helm and navigators position elevated to provide excellent visibility. The cabin is centrally positioned in an ‘island configuration’ with a clear 750mm walkway each side with  and around the bow where there is a cargo lifting space. This provides a safe passageway and spacious work and boarding area at the bow.

Aft twin dive platforms at the transom of each hull give waterline access through transom gates, and the well decked aft cockpit features a HIAB crane and a large clear cargo area.  

Above and below, photos taken from her rough weather sea trials, you can see a video of the trials from this link- SEE THE VIDEO

Below, undertaking trials with the Irish coastguard helicopter and took some nice pics, we also had a video made, - SEE THE VIDEO

Above and below, photos taken from her rough weather sea trials, you can see a video of the trials from this link- SEE THE VIDEO

The Wildcat 53 hull design is a larger version of our very successful and thoroughly proven 36 / 40 design, featuring the same high buoyancy bow,  symmetrical twin chine hull design that provides excellent sea keeping and performance, providing a soft ride into steep head seas with enough buoyancy in the f/wd sections to always lift the bow over waves, preventing slamming on the bridge deck. The hulls twin chine arrangement creates a spray air medium that allows the hull to almost ride on a cushion of air which gives the cat such a soft ride,  and also makes for an exceptionally dry vessel. Down wind again the hulls  provide adequate buoyancy to keep the bows up and the Wildcat hull is almost non broaching, allowing big quartering seas to be run down with little steering effort in total safety.  Safehaven's hulls have gained an enviable reputation for strength  and sea keeping over the years, their all weather pilot boats highly respected and it is this same design ethos that is bought into our new Wind farm Wildcat 53 / 16M.

ISLAND TIGER has very clean and graceful lines incorporating Safehaven's trademark 'gull wing' sheer line. Being of GRP construction means her finish is superb, with a high gloss, low maintenance finish and she has turned out a superb looking vessel.

Accommodation fit out is to a very high standard, the area is very spacious and designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious environment  with a combination of aircraft style transit seating and dinette and table designs for standby.  The cabin design is open plan with a full galley in the port hull and bunk berths in the st/bd hull. A useful feature is the incorporation of a wet room, featuring aft cockpit access, hanging space, toilet and shower facilities with access from their direct to the main accommodation, this allows personnel the ability to disrobe from work gear and enter the living area clean and dry. 'ISLAND TIGER' is the first vessel of two ordered by Island Shipping and is due to be exhibited at Seawork 2010 in Southampton alongside ‘Pathfinder’, the second of their pilot / patrol boats delivered to the Port of Southampton

OCEAN 3 provided the bow fendering. This is a heavy duty system comprising a polyethylene high density foam core with a 50mm thick rubber skin the will prove durable in service.

Both vessels will be powered by Ultra Dynamic 451 jet units powered by Scania D12 engines. Water jets were chosen for their ability to provide high thrust with lower mechanical stresses against the windfarm structure, combined with good maneuverability, speed and safety. The vessel will be fully equipped for windfarm operations, equipped with a HIAB crane with a 6m reach, She will be equipped for dive operations with twin dive platforms transom doors and is fitted with a 10kw generator providing 24v throughout the vessel. To offer the most proficient level of versatility to the offshore industry and is fitted out and equipped for survey and hydrographic duties. She is built under dual certification for both the UK and Ireland.

General information

Light ship displacement          25,000kg

LOA                                         17m

Moulded                                  16m

Beam                                       6.1m

Draft-                                        Fully loaded - 1.0m

Fuel capacity                           3600L

Water capacity                        160 L

Engines                                    Scania D12 @ 650hp / 2200rpm

Maximum speed                      25 kts

Operational speed                   23kts 

PORT OF BORDEAUX'S INTERCEPTOR 48 'PILOT'

The 'Syndicat Professional des pilotes de la Gironde's new Interceptor 48 'NIB's'. is progressing well. This vessel is to be built to an exceptional standard with a very high specification, very similar to the Port of St Malo's and Bayonne's pilot vessels supplied before. She will be powered by a pair of Iveco 13 litre engines at 520hp. She will incorporate the French industry standard NIBS fendering, which features a 300mm lightweight rubberized skin foam fender, retained in a recess in the hull and secured by multiple straps.  She will incorporate our new pilot boarding ladder that  facilitating safe pilot transfer and a Jason cradle MOB recovery system stored in a recess in the superstructure side. Below are some photos of her nearing completion.

PORT OF MALTA ORDER A SECOND INTERCEPTOR PILOT VESSEL

The pilots from Malta have ordered a second Interceptor pilot vessel 2 yrs after taking delivery of their Interceptor 42 'ECHO 1' This time they have opted for our new Interceptor 48 pilot, but with a cab forward design similar the the Venice vessel. The vessel will be capable of undertaking crew transfer and light cargo as well as pilotage duties and will be fitted with a pair of Scania D12 engines. Her general arrangement is shown below.

SAFEHAVEN MARINE WIN INTERNATIONAL TENDER TO SUPPLY A NEW PILOT VESSEL TO THE

                                                     PORT OF LIVERPOOL.

Safehaven Marine have won an International tender to build the Port of Liverpool's new pilot vessel. Peel Ports launched an International tender process in February 2010 and against stiff completion from many UK and European pilot boat builders, Safehaven won the contract. Their Interceptor 48 was chosen, its reputation of proven seakeeping, overall design innovation specific to pilotage and competitive price were an unbeatable combination. The vessel is due for delivery in March 2011. The vessel will be powered by Volvo's venerable D12 500hp engine, well proven over many years in service, the vessel will have an operational speed of 23-24kts and be fitted out to a very high standard featuring a central wrap around helm position providing a very focused helmsman environment, and allowing the crew / pilots to have a a repeater station alongside, giving the advantage of a second pair of eyes on the navigators instruments in poor conditions. There is seating for 6 pilots plus helmsman on individual CAB 300 series seating in the main accommodation area,  with a further seating capacity in the spacious forward cabin comprising two CAB 300 seats in combination with a comfortable settee / dinette and table area, small galley with a 240v microwave and outlets and sink. A separate heads compartment with an electric toilet is provided. The forecabin will be fully paneled out to provide a comfortable living environment enabling a maximum passenger seating capacity of 12 persons, and provide the crew, when during standby, or on extended service with a comfortable, relaxing environment. Other notable features are a 240v onboard supply from an Electrolux engine driven 3kw alternator and power pack, Air- conditioning is fitted to provide a dry, climate controlled environment for pilots and crew, double glazing is fitted throughout to reduce condensation and noise levels. The vessel will be fitted with Safehaven's unique sacrificial fender system with additional fendering at the bow and transom quarters.

ATLANTIDA AZUL continues to operate successfully in the Portuguese Port of Sines, the Port authorities recently sent me some nice photographs of her offshore in gale force conditions, the Port and her crew report that they are very happy with her, especially her comfort and sea keeping.

DENMARK'S PORT OF ROENNE INTERCEPTOR 42 'PILOT'

The Danish Port of Roenne's Interceptor 42 'PILOT' is advanced in construction, with her hull and superstructure now completed and fendering being installed. 

'IZURDIA' operating successfully in her home Port of Bayonne, France.

Izurdia has been in service for the past two months. Her pilots and crew are very happy with her, testimony to this is a complimentary e mail from the Ports chief pilot Bertrand Moutard:

Hi Frank.

The boys went outside at the beginning of the bad weather, with about 5 meters, and they have all been surprised with her excellent sea keeping and specially how they could maintained a good speed in this condition. On Saturday morning, we catch a peak of 10 m and the boys have asked to go outside for playing with the boat. As we have no ships to do, I haven't give them the permission and told them that we will have time to play in big seas in future. Every body is also very impressive about the low level of noise ! The standard of comfort is now very high. They all said that at the end of a working day, they are less tired than before. So, I answered that we can now reduced the vacation time ! Also from outside, ie when you embark from a pontoon, you don't ear any noise. It 's a kind of furtive boat  and you should investigate the pirat boat market !

  All the crew and pilots are 300 % very happy with your building. In Bayonne, we have now passed a big step in terms of level of quality of pilot boats. On the other boat, I have had always some bad comments after launching. With Izurdia, I received nothing ! and after 2 week of operation, I still have nothing. The transfer boarding ladder we have designed are excellent !

  Thanks again for this excellent boat.

  Bertrand

Below are some photos showing her in operation and her 'pilot boarding ladder' in good use.

Interceptor 42 pilot for the Portuguese Port of  Figueira Da Foz,    'CABO MONDEGO'

See a video of her being sea trialed offshore-  SEE THE VIDEO

'PATHFINDER' Enters service alongside 'Spitfire' in the Port of Southampton.

Pathfinder is now in service alongside her sister ship Spitfire operating as pilot / patrol duties in Southampton's waters. Her crew are very happy with her and we have received a couple of nice e mails from her crew;

Hi Frank

I have used Pathfinder now for 8 watches and she is a fantastic boat all round, the changes you have made are spot on and she is a very well balance boat, a credit to you and your team. I am gutted that I am on leave now for 2 weeks as I miss driving the launch so much !!  Thank you Frank and we will all do our best to promote our boat which we are all so proud off !! Hope to see you at the work boat Show and have a chat !  If you don't mind keeping us updated with the 48 !

Regards

Gary

Frank

Thought You'd appreciate some constructive Feedback on Pathfinder! These are my views/opinions but I believe the other 9 users are of the same mind. We are operating in 'sheltered waters'( none of your 8m seas here thank goodness!) Though conditions in the Western Solent can produce very short and steep waves. We also patrol port areas in movement restricted areas. The alteration of weight distribution has made a big difference to trim .We hardly use the Trim tabs except in messy head sea stuff, when it makes movement  'less lively', compared to the FRCV's its sooo much more benign.

We are all very appreciative of the fact that you listened to how we would like the Pathfiders helm position/instruments/switches and to my mind it really is spot on. Thanks. An inch  plinth under the throttle control would prevent the helm operator having to lean forward to adjust controls but it is a minor niggle. 'Quick shift' is the only way to go! I really hadn't realized how darn useful it would be when operating in port confines. Just trickling ahead to Synching the engines when patrolling ships to great instant sprint response when needed. I agree that the noise levels ARE even lower than Spitfire which makes 12 hour watches so much less wearing.

The improved Galley area is a big improvement on Spitfire too, as is the improved internal lighting. A couple of months back I took Spitfire out to the Nab pilot boarding area in 3m seas alongside a large tanker. She behaved very well and I think even the Nelson 48 crews were impressed.

So Pathfinder is a great boat that I actually enjoy maneuvering/operating. Well done!

Regards

John Hyland

Ps.. yeah and thanks for puttin' that music system in! It really does make a big difference.    

Anyone who missed the last newsletter might enjoy this video of her in Storm force 10 and 8m seas- See pics and video, click here

WILDCAT 40 'SEAFLOWER'

'SEAFLOWER'    Kenny Livingstone's new Wildcat 40 has been launched. Kenny will be operating her commercially off the West Coast of Scotland. 

Below are some nice photos the Wildcat 40 'SEAFLOWER' being sea trialed in a force 7 southerly gale in 3.5m seas. You can see a video of the trails on you tube, CLICK HERE TO SEE THE VIDEO

Running beam on in a Wildcat is no problem.

A few nice waves around on this day.

Below, the completed hull for the first of Island Shipping's wind farm catamarans 'ISLAND TIGER' 

La Reunions Wildcat 40 Hydrographic survey vessel.

The Port of La Reunion have placed an order for our Wildcat 40 survey catamaran. The vessel will feature a moon pool deploying Cadden multi beam sonar equipment, it will be built under Bureau Veritas survey to French Maritime authority rules for commercial vessels and be powered by two Volvo D7 260hp engines. Below the chosen design below.

Below, her hull being laid up.