The Port of London Authority (PLA) has signed a deal with Essex-based supplier CTruk to launch a new purpose-built survey catamaran on to the river Thames, enhancing studies in the busy inland waterway.
CTruk MPC19 will replace the PLA’s long-serving survey vessel, Yantlet, after its delivery later this year.
The new vessel will be part of PLA’s hydrography team’s vital survey work that facilitates safe navigation on the tidal Thames.
PLA port hydrographer captain John Pinder said: "This boat should be an excellent addition to our fleet.
"It offers more space to our busy crew and its fuel efficiency is a bonus that will help us keep costs down."
The hydro-dynamically optimised, twin-hull design vessel will offer a smooth passage through the water and will be able to pass Thames bridges with ease, with the help of a low draught for shallow water access and a low air draught.
Vessel features include water-jet propulsion, multi-beam sonar platform, a 4m-long survey-capable rigid inflatable boat (RIB), top-of-the-range echo sounding systems and ancillary survey equipment and equipment such as a Palfinger foldable knuckle crane.
CTruck MPC19 will have a cruise speed of 18k and be able to accommodate up to two crew and ten passengers.
In addition, the fuel-efficient boat will have a survey speed from 2k and a deck capable of taking loads of up to 1t/m².
Image: The FRP composite vessel will have a smooth hull and lean body frame. Photo: courtesy of CTruk Boats Ltd.
