UK-based Briggs Marine, a leading marine contractor, said it 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, designed by French naval architect Pantocarene for the builder, Goodchild Marine in Great Yarmouth, were ordered in 2016, said a statement from the company.

The 17-metre-craft Kittiwake, the first of the three vessels to be completed, is set to join Briggs’ long-term contract in the Port of Liverpool, as part of a fleet renewal, it said.

Further orders are in the pipeline, it added.

Iain Ross, operations director, Briggs Marine, 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,” he said.

“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 new vessels will allow us to continue offering a first-class service,” he observed.

One of the new vessels will also be showcased in Southampton next month at the Seawork International conference and exhibition, it added.-TradeArabia News Service