7m Buddy delivered to British Waterways, UK
May 24, 2007
Liverpool Water Witch, specialist builders of workboats and waterway maintenance equipment have recently delivered a 7m litter collection and waterway maintenance craft to British Waterways, UK.
This new design is based on the builder’s proven range of catamarans, which offer unique interchangeable drop in 'pod' system to enable to craft to perform a wide range of duties.
The craft features an all aluminium wheelhouse, is equipped with a range of navigational and on-board safety equipment and is built to meet the proposed standards for Inland Waterway Craft.
An all aluminium wheelhouse features toughened glass windows and secure under floor storage. A solar panel mounted on the wheelhouse roof provides trickle charging to the main battery.
Powered by a Yamaha high thrust 25hp four-stroke outboard engine, designed specifically for non-displacement craft where power rather than speed is required, the craft is highly manoeuvrable and versatile.
The 7m design efficiently collects floating debris such as plastic bottles and food containers, and offers the flexibility of 14m2 working deck space. A purpose-built road trailer is available for easy transportation between sites using a four wheel drive vehicle.
In addition to keeping the waterspace in a clean and safe condition, the vessel will additionally perform dive support duties and general quayside maintenance.
Operating within the Albert Dock basin and Canning Dock, the craft will also service the new 2.5km canal link currently under construction, linking the docks to the Leeds Liverpool Canal. Canal boats will be able to navigate through from the terminus at Stanley Dock and past the Pier Head.
Work for the new waterway is due to be completed by the end of 2007 in readiness for Liverpool’s 800th anniversary and the Capital of Culture celebrations in 2008.
A competition is underway for local schoolchildren to choose a name for the vessel, which will be announced at a prestigious ceremony later this month.