SAMS have two boats suitable for diving, wildlife and research trips.

Dive RIB
Built by HUMBER, the RIB has proved to be a very robust and safe dive boat. Fitted with twin 75hp outboards the rib will carry up to 6 fully kitted divers quickly and safely.

Catamaran
South Atlantic Marine Services and Pesqueras de Bon (owners of the trawler Piscator) have through their Fishing Joint Venture Southern Harvest (FI) Ltd., invested in the purchase of a new Blyth 14 metre Catamaran which is presently being built in Canvey Island, Essex.

The Catamaran will be completed by May 2007 and will be shipped to the Falklands in August 2007 after all necessary sea trials are completed.

It is powered by two C7 Caterpillar marine diesel engines driving conventional shaft driven propellers. Top speed should be 25+ knots, with a predicted economical speed of 14 to 16 knots.

With an overall length of 14m the Catamaran has a very large wheelhouse which can accommodate up to 12 passengers in comfort on day trips. A separate galley and toilet has also been built into the wheelhouse structure.

Fuel capacity is 1600L and fresh water capacity is 800L.

In each hull there is accommodation for 2 to 3 persons together with en suite toilet.

The Catamaran is being built to the Category 2 Code of Practice and will be MCA compliant.

The raised fore deck is large enough for people to safely view the dolphins and other wildlife whilst the after deck has a large 5m x 2.8m working area. A small 'A' frame or hydraulic davit could in the future be installed to further expand the capabilities of this boat.

Doors on either side allow for easy boarding and a large transom door and platform gives access for sport and commercial diving operations.

The photographs show the Catamaran being built in the Blyth Workshops, whilst the line drawing gives an impression of the layout of the catamaran.

We hope that the Catamaran will fulfil a number of requirements in the Tourism Industry, S.A.M.S. Commercial Diving Activities, Charter Work and Research work relating to Environmental Impact studies and Inshore Fisheries Marine Surveys and many other marine exploration and research work.

A flybridge has also be incorporated which will be an added bonus for whale watching and other wildlife trips.

For further information contact David Eynon on email: dceynon@horizon.co.fk