Damen has delivered a new shoalbuster 2308S to the Bristol Port Company. The vessel can be used for plough dredging, towing, pilotage and survey duties.
The 23 m long was constructed at Damen Shipyards Hardinxfield, in the Netherlands. During the handover ceremony on 17 March, th[ds_preview]e vessel was officially named »Graham Robertson«.
The Bristol Port Company will mobilise the newbuilding in a variety of functions. To this end, the adaptable design of the Shoalbuster 2308S allowed the yard to install numerous extra equipment. Addressing the primary role of plough dredging activities, the »Graham Robertson« has an aft-mounted A-frame. »Being able to plough dredge will also ensure the maximum available depth of water can be maintained within the dock,« says Bristol Port Company Deputy Haven Master Christopher Jones.
The vessel will also undertake buoy maintenance and installation and repair works, he continues: »For this her hydraulic deck crane will prove invaluable.« To further enhance the versatile nature of the »Graham Robertson«, the contract also called for a dismountable pilotage platform to allow for occasional piloting tasks, firefighting equipment and a towing hook.
