The following is the text of a news release from Vigor:
(SEATTLE) — Vigor has expanded its growing portfolio of international sales with the delivery of two 62-foot (19-meter) all-weather pilot boats to the Port of Duqm Co. (PDC), SAOC, Sultanate of Oman. The port has been undergoing a major multiphase expansion and the new pilot boats will play a key role in ensuring the safety of vessels calling on the port.
“This is an important delivery for us,” said Keith Whittemore, Vigor executive vice president of business development. “PDC is a world-class, state-of-the-art port with a major commitment to quality and safety. Our team was honored to be chosen to help PDC achieve the objective of setting the new standard for pilot boats in the Middle East.”
Designed by Camarc Design Ltd. and built at Vigor’s Ballard facility (formerly Kvichak Marine), the vessels not only function as pilot boats but also as search and rescue and oil spill recovery vessels. The all-aluminum vessels are powered by twin Cummins QSK-19 marine diesel engines rated for 800 hp at 2,100 rpm each with twin ZF 2000A transmissions driving nibral five-blade fixed propellers, providing an operating speed of 20 knots. The pilot boats offer outstanding performance and safety in the harshest weather, including the high winds and stormy seas experienced in southern Oman during "Hareef" (typhoon) season.
“With the arrival of the new pilot boats, Port of Duqm Co. is preparing for the next level of professionalism and safety toward its customers,” said Wim Aertbelien, PDC harbor master and chief pilot. “Port of Duqm Co. is determined to continue to maintain a close and solid relationship with the Vigor shipyard.”
Vessel specifications:
Length, overall: 62.3
Beam, overall: 19.7
Draft, operating: ~3.0
Fuel capacity: 1,050 gallons
Freshwater capacity: 66 gallons
Onan 50-kW genset
Palfinger PK11001MC deck crane
Popsure fender system
Lamor MSRm1411 manual boom reel
Lamor Minimax 60 oil skimming system
Lamor GTA 70 transfer pump
Lamor LPP 38 hydraulic power unit
Furuno navigation package
Seating: Two crew, eight pilots
