Hydrography and underwater surveys she meets the highest considerations for safety and the environment.� The diesel electric propulsion, specially designed hull, resilient engine mounts and rudder propellers maximise stationkeeping and navigational control while ensuring acoustically quiet running at survey speeds. The 53 metre-long vessel is prepared for dynamic positioning and equipped with state-of-the-art survey equipment.
FEATURE
Impi 2, the per-
manently mobilised 8-metre survey launch, pictured with Alexandre Vouillot (Managing Director of Fugro Survey Africa) and Gazelle Faure, Fugro Frontier’s godmother.
At over 7 metres longer than Geo Endeavour, the Romanian-built Fugro Frontier can accommodate more staff, including two trainees. “We are very pleased that we can also provide more onboard space for our clients,� Els remarks. The eagerly anticipated vessel also offers comforts that include an onboard gym. Fugro Frontier will enable the survey teams to provide a more versatile service and undertake more complex projects that are not possible from a charter vessel. Her limited 3-metre draft and permanently mobilised 8-metre survey launch adds to her operational capabilities in both shallow and deep water. The survey launch, the Impi 2, can be fully mobilised with its own survey equipment, allowing the two vessels to operate simultaneously. The South African-built Impi 2 is deployed via an integrated slipway and provides an ideal platform for surveying up to beach breaks or in any other limited draft environments. Currently bidding on work contracts in West Africa, Els says the Fugro Frontier is likely to make a pit stop in Cape Town en route to the survey area. Although keen to see her for the first time, she expects the vessel to spend very little time in the port, preferring that she proves her capabilities in the field. The delivery of the Fugro Frontier will enable Fugro to meet client demands in the deepwater, coastal and renewables industry sectors and is part of the group’s global programme to replace older tonnage with new, innovative and efficient vessels.
MARITIME REVIEW Africa: February 2015
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