University of Plymouth Workboat

Tender description

The University of Plymouth has a requirement to augment their current fleet of research and diving support vessels in order to extend and enhance excellence in marine related research and teaching. Lot 1: The University of Plymouth has a requirement to augment their current fleet of research and diving support vessels in order to extend and enhance excellence in marine related research and teaching. This new coded vessel is intended to support operational diving and have sufficient utility to be used for research and teaching within the bounds of Category 2 waters. The object is to have a vessel that is fit for purpose, complies with all relevant legislation in order to efficiently, effectively and safely carry students and their equipment so they can undertake diving, research and teaching. The basic specification is given as a guide to the specific requirements of the University: Essential: • Vessel must be coded to the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency standard of MCA Cat 2 (14 persons on board; 60 nautical miles from a Safe Haven). • Capable for taking the ground in a tidal harbour • Large (min. 21m2) configurable deck space aft of wheelhouse • Hot and cold fresh water plumbing in galley and lavatory areas • Small galley • Interior cabin space capable of hosting small groups with a flexible workstation • Capacity for deck/hull to be modified to accommodate any future lifting installations • Total endurance at cruising speed 150 miles • Vessel is of modern design using established construction techniques and materials • Based on the desire to operate offshore, the need for rapid transit and the workspace requirements, a multi-hull (catamaran) vessel of 10-12 m length is required • Overall draft <1.5m • Ability to transit comfortably at 15-20 knots with a sprint speed in excess of 20kts. • Twin inboard turbo diesel engines under 3000 running hours • Vessel available for Feb/March 2023 to allow for any bespoke work/refurbishment. Desirable • Deck cargo carrying capacity in excess of 1000kg • Electronic throttles • Fuel efficiency at 15kts less that 80ltrs per hour • Clean electrical power at 240 V from a generator system • Hydraulic lifting equipment to facilitate the deployment and recovery of scientific equipment • Transom and side doors to allow easy access for personnel and equipment • Pilot bunk for use by skipper on transfer trips, for operating from a remote base and as a sick bay • Ladder access for swimmer / diver recovery • Anchoring capability with windlass • Wheelhouse heating • Up to date electronic navigation aids / equipment • Deck lights for night-time operations • Shore power system and associated battery chargers • Fire and smoke detection and alarm system