New Sarnia workboat ‘challenging tender’

The new vessel, M35, will replace the Sarnia, which was delivered in the late 1980s.

The new boat is being constructed at Meercat Boats in Hythe, Southampton.

‘Guernsey Harbours’ tender was extremely challenging due to the complexity of the multiple tasks the new workboat is expected to undertake,’ said the company’s technical manager, Jim Mair.

‘The wide variety of on-board equipment, combined with exacting performance requirements, will certainly make her an incredibly versatile vessel.’

Replacing the Sarnia has been a priority for Guernsey Harbours since a report was compiled in 2010, which recommended a new £1m. vessel.

The new workboat will provide a modern, safe and highly manoeuvrable working platform, with the addition of increased deck space and crane capacity, to carry out a wide range of duties.

Its design will provide improved safety and comfort for Guernsey Harbour’s maintenance team.

Head of technical and estate services at the ports, Martyn Stanfield, said the ability to work closely with the design team at Meercat enabled them to achieve the right vessel for the role that is required now and for the future of Guernsey Harbours.