Guernsey Press

Work on Trident V is hampered by weather

REPAIRS to Herm ferry Trident V have been hampered by the weather.

Published
Work on Herm Trident V, right, has not gone as smoothly as planned due to the wet weather. Behind her on the slip is another inter-island ferry, the Sark Venture. (Picture by Tony Rive)

‘We are hoping to get her back in service in early February, when Trident VI will go through her routine repairs,’ a Trident spokesman said.

‘Time hasn’t been on our side this year so we’re a bit behind on work on the V from the awful weather.’

Despite the poor working conditions, it has been possible to make some improvements.

‘Since October we’ve had about seven days of dry weather where we could carry out repairs. We’ve spent an awful lot of money on her, as we were programmed to fit in two brand new engines this year,’ the spokesman said.

‘But, because of the weather, we’ve only been able to fit one engine in on the starboard side with a generator and one generator on the other side. The other engine is now due to be installed this time next year,’ they said.

These changes will bring the Trident V up to date with what is available.

‘The refurbishing work involves general improvements to the vessel.

‘Some are from a safety perspective or to make life easier for the crew, like installing ladders where they’re needed,’ the spokesman said. ‘This time we’ve kitted out one corner with a kitchen as this space is used for functions.

‘Everything will be back up and running for February.

‘The Trident V needed more work doing than the Trident VI as she’s quite an old vessel. We’ve got to look after our sea vessels, and because we’ve taken good care of her she’s still functioning and in good nick.’