Burgess Marine refits passenger ferries for Wightlink and Condor

UK-based ship repairer and marine engineering services provider Burgess Marine refitted three passenger ferries for UK operators Wightlink and Condor Ferries this winter.

Burgess Marine carried out the work at its 5,000T syncrolift in the French port of Cherbourg. The company also has a 1000T facility in Portchester, UK.

Condor Ferries’ Condor Rapide underwent her five-year special survey and extensive aluminium repairs and renewals, while her waterjets, generators, main engine turbochargers and ride control system were all overhauled. Her main engine exhaust systems were also repaired, and new anti-fouling coatings were applied.

“This valuable order from Condor Ferries demonstrates our genuinely unrivalled skills base and competitiveness in the fast ferry repair market,” said Nicholas Warren, Burgess Marine’s chief executive. “We have the technical management, knowledge, and perhaps most importantly the passion and integrity to bring something truly unique to the table with regards to fast ferries.”

Burgess Marine also completed engineering and work on both the hull and seawater pipes onboard two Wightlink’s ferries – St Faith and St Cecilia. The team changed two sets of Voith blade seals, completed welding repairs, removed and partly rebuilt the stern prow, and inspected, re-seated and reassembled the sea valves.

“Supporting the Wightlink fleet in Cherbourg has been a genuine pleasure,” said Ray Cutts, Burgess Marine’s technical director. “We obviously refit their fast ferries locally in Portsmouth so this extension of service is a natural development of our long-standing and mutually beneficial relationship.”