to 2.5m. This capacity means that the vessel
is not restricted to the role of
crew transfer vessel and according to Hambro: “It can replace a crew transfer vessel, a refuelling rig, a survey boat and also acts as a mini ‘floatel’.” Te first vessel is set to undergo sea trials
in October and the trials are expected to go well as, although a new vessel, the hull is of a tried and tested design. Te second catamaran is scheduled to follow three months later. Under the contract, confirmed in March 2011, Tidal Transit has the rights to a further eight vessels from Mercurio, which it hopes to take up over the next three years. The potential 10-vessel order is a
positive sign for the Spanish shipyard. Moreno comments: “Like the European sector in general, Spanish shipbuilding in general is in a tricky situation as most of the big steel shipyards from North Spain have been completing and delivering their orders but are not starting many
[new builds] as most new projects have been stopped.” Moreno also cites China, Korea and Asiatic countries as being major competition for large vessel construction. However, Moreno says that Mercurio’s
order book has been increasing as the yard focuses its business in the area of aquaculture and ferries, with wind farm support looking “very promising” for the
coming years. As certified suppliers of high-tech production methods and advanced composites, moulds and tools for the wind blades industry and army shipyards like Navantia, Moreno has a positive outlook for the future. Mercurio Plastics Shipyard is
developing a new project to create facilities and offices covering 10,000m2 also in the Cartagena area. SBI
,
The hulls’ central nacelle and bow windows reduce slamming, creating a more stable ride over traditional catamaran designs.
Ship & Boat International July/August 2011
53
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