Leading UK marine contractor, Briggs Marine, is set to further increase its fleet with the delivery of a new vessel following successful trials earlier this month. A total of three ORC 171 Fast Pilot vessels were ordered in 2016 and have been designed by French naval architect Pantocarene for the builder, Goodchild Marine in Great Yarmouth, the Company's press service said.
The 17 metre craft KITTIWAKE, which is the first of the three vessels to be completed, wrapped up trials early May and is set to join Briggs’ long-term contract in the Port of Liverpool, as part of a fleet renewal. Further orders are in the pipeline.
Briggs Marine operations director Iain Ross said: “After seeing the ORC craft in action, we were very impressed with its design which encompasses safety, comfort and fuel efficiency. This particular model was deemed the best in market to address the requirements of a long-term contract in Liverpool, and the challenges posed by this particular area.
“We continue to invest in our people, our processes and our assets to ensure our capabilities remain at the very highest standard, and the addition of these three new vessels will allow us to continue offering a first-class service.”
One of the new vessels will also be showcased in Southampton next month at the Seawork International conference and exhibition.
Briggs Marine and Environmental Services supply a range of services including vessel charter and management, submarine cable installation, repair and maintenance, diving services, operation and maintenance of Aids to Navigation, salvage and wreck removal, oil and gas terminal operations and environmental consultancy. The company also provides an International emergency oil spill response service. Established in the 1970s, the Briggs Group has a strong reputation within the maritime and oil and gas sectors, which has also allowed the company to expand into the renewable energy sector over the last ten years. The Briggs Group has head offices in Burntisland, Fife as well as further operations in Aberdeen and international offices in Baku, Azerbaijan.