The contract will bring Red Jet 3 back to the Isle of Wight for first time since she was built there in 1998
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Wight Shipyard on the Isle of Wight is to carry out an annual survey and refit onboard Red Funnel Ferries’ high-speed catamaran Red Jet 3 later this month.
The yard will carry out the work at The Columbine in East Cowes, marking the first time the vessel has been refitted on the island since it was built by FBM Marine in 1998.
“In addition to our current newbuild work for London-based MBNA Thames Clippers, we have been successful in winning a number of important refit contracts,” said Peter Morton, managing director of Wight Shipyard. “This valuable order from Red Funnel demonstrates our unrivalled skills base and competitiveness in the fast ferry repair market.”
Planned work includes hull inspections, the removal and refurbishment of the twin MJP waterjet units, painting, antifouling and re-certification. Due to the weight limitations of the hoist and facilities at Venture Quays, both MTU 396 engines will be removed from Red Jet 3 before she can be safely lifted from the water.
“With a net tonnage of 77 tonnes, Red Jet 3 is really too big for the facilities available at Venture Quays, however, by removing her engines prior to lifting we have found a way to refit her in Cowes and provide further support for marine jobs on the island,” said Kevin George, Red Funnel’s CEO. “In the not too distant future, we hope to see the development of new marine facilities at Kingston that can be used to build and repair much larger vessels. Kingston would allow us to refit Red Jet 4, Red Jet 6 and all future Red Jets on the island and bring significant benefits to the local economy.”