Following on from the recent launch of the pilot vessel Genesis, Western Australia-based naval architecture firm Southerly Designs has recently secured orders for the complete design and specification of a new class of pilot boats with Southern Engineering Co (SECO), a Kenya-based shipyard.
The trio of 19.5-metre vessels will be constructed in steel with an aluminium superstructure, and will be in classed by Bureau Veritas. The deckhouse will include seating for two crew and up to 12 passengers, while below deck accommodation will provide for three crew.
As with the Genesis, excellent visibility is provided from the central conning position by large direct glazed windows. The vessel arrangement also eliminates large air intakes and a toilet cubicle from the aft of the deckhouse, facilitating true 360-degree visibility. Large overhead windows provide excellent visibility for approach to the ship and pilot boarding facility. Furthermore, the split arrangement of the forward deck railings provides an unobstructed view ahead.
Propulsion will be provided by twin MAN D2862 LE 432, producing 882 kW at 2,100 rpm, coupled to ZF 2050A transmissions and Nakashima five-blade propellers.
A notable feature of these hulls is the twin skeg arrangement, offering outstanding protection to the running gear and facilitating the use of oversized rudders. The twin keels have also been proven in service to provide significantly improved directional stability and roll damping.
The vessels will be built by SECO in Mombasa, Kenya for its customer, the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA).
"The combination of IACS classification, leading modern design and engineering, with local construction and support in Kenya is set to establish a new benchmark for quality locally built vessels within the East African region," commented Andrew Taylor of Southerly Designs.
