Vigor delivers two pilot boats to Oman

SEPTEMBER 15, 2016 — Vigor has delivered two, 19 m all-weather pilot boats to the Port of Duqm Company (PDC) in the 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.

Over the years Vigor has successfully delivered vessels throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia and South America. The delivery of the Duqm pilot boats expands the shipbuilder’s Middle East presence and helps further its international strategy targeting specialized commercial markets and foreign military sales.

“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., U.K., and built at Vigor’s Ballard facility (formerly Kvichak Marine) in Seattle, WA, the all-aluminum vessels not only function as pilot boats but also as search and rescue and oil spill recovery vessels.

Each is powered by twin Cummins QSK-19 marine diesel engines rated at 800 hp @ 2100 rpm each and twin ZF 2000A transmissions driving NiBrAl five-bladed fixed propellers providing an operating speed of around 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 Company is preparing for the next level of professionalism and safety towards its customers,” said Wim Aertbelien, PDC Harbor Master and Chief Pilot. “Port of Duqm Company is determined to continue to maintain a close and solid relationship with the Vigor shipyard.”

Vessel Specifications:

Length, overall: 62.3′ (19.0m)
Beam, overall: 19.7′ (6.0m)
Draft, operating: ~3.0′ (.91m)
Fuel Capacity: 1050gal (3975 l)
Fresh Water Capacity: 66 gal (250 l)
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: 2 crew, 8 pilots