Work has started on what its builders claim to be the largest GRP fishing boat on the market today.
The SH50 is a 48.5ft/15m multi-purpose work boat, designed to be used for many applications, including fishing.
The vessel is the first Seahawk Workboats design, created in response to demand for larger multi-purpose vessels and is currently being constructed at Seahawk’s yard in Plymouth, UK, to be used for operations in the South West region.
There are fewer maintenance issues with GRP and upkeep is much reduced, explained Dan Stevens of Seahawk Workboats. It’s the first GRP fishing boat being built of this size, we can’t remember the last time a boat of this size was designed in GRP. There are boat builders which are building boats of this size in steel which needs a lot of maintenance. GRP has fewer maintenance issues and improved longevity.
He added: We’ve designed the SH50 as a very robust design which can be adapted and built to suit a wide range of applications. We’ve had much interest in the design and currently do have build slots available. We are fully audited by the MCA so all construction and outfitting complies with the MCA Workboat Code of Practice and Seafish construction standards.
The vessel has a wave piercing bulbous bow providing good waterline length and bilge keels allowing her to be beached if required. Other features include a fuel capacity of 8 tonnes which can also be configured to carry up to 15 tonnes, six fish holds suitable for in excess of 40m3, a 360 degree tug style wheelhouse with excellent visibility, a bow and stern thruster, Hercules Hydraulics package, five bladed single screw prop for quiet running and a full suite of navigation equipment.
SH50 is due to be delivered later this year.
Mercator Media Ltd 2014