2010 has been another significant year in the life of Blyth Workcats, unprecedented demand from the wind farm industry sector has seen the establishment of the Blyth 14m "Opal" Class multi-role work boat as a firm favourite. A proven work-horse approved for a wide range of support activities on offshore developments throughout the UK. There are currently four more 14m projects in progress all with contracts waiting early in 2011. Each project brings new development opportunities including stepped wheelhouse, extra tanks for fuel transfer, large working deck areas for load carrying, deck cranes, diver lifts and power options for both conventional shafts or water jets providing excellent performance and economy.
New 17m
Taking note of representation from experienced owner operators working in this sector, Blyth has developed a new 17m workcat. This new model compliments the established 14m and adds greater capability in terms of load carrying, crew accommodation, range and performance. In short we believe this new model will rapidly become a favourite as wind farm developments move further offshore where larger support vessels may be preferred.
The first examples of the Blyth 17m will be launched in 2011 and build starts are being filled now.
Whilst, of course welcoming the demand for wind farm vessels, we continue to value and maintain an enviable reputation in the delivery of Blyth workboats that meet a wide range of activities.
Notable completed projects this year include:
- "Opal" – 14m wind farm support – multi role vessel operating out of Lowestoft
- "Atlantis" – a 14m Seafish commercial netter for a Belgian client, Bart Schiltz.
- "Top Cat III" – an 11m charter angling vessel for Ivan Wellington – a highly respected skipper from Weymouth.
- "Sea Leopard II" – the third in a range of acclaimed 12m passenger vessels.
- "Furesund" – a new application for the timeless Blyth 33, operated from fish farm maintenance activities by Even Leirvik of Norway.
- "MUSC" – a Blyth 33 for survey work in UAE.
- "Du Blyth" – Asymmetric, low draft, fast response water jet vessel operating in Dubai
The message is clear, Blyth Workcats provide an excellent proven solution to a wide range of commercial catamaran activities. If your interest is angling, diving, Seafish potting/netting, passenger vessels (12m to 17m), workboats for cargo handling/harbour work, specialist survey or to meet the multiple demands of the wind farm sector (10m to 17m), Blyth Workcats can provide the solution.
Our prices are always competitive and we continue to offer part built options to selected, suitably qualified clients.
A significant factor in our success in all these sectors is the ability to meet or exceed the requirements of industry benchmark construction standards including:
- MCA Work Boat Code
- MCA P6 Passenger Classification
- Seafish
- Irish P5
- and this year Belgian Maritime Inspectorate.
Our internal Quality Management System, experienced skilled and loyal workforce and excellent facilities have all contributed to the recent award of ISO9001-2008 accreditation. Over the past year we have made many changes to our facilities on Canvey Island and have developed a second moulding workshop which gives us added capacity and demonstrates our commitment to a policy of continuous improvement.
If you are planning a project now or in the future, why not become part of this success story…