Trinity House has awarded a contract to leading international shipbuilder VARD for the design and construction of two new multi-functional vessels, marking a major milestone in the organisation's Future Afloat fleet renewal programme.
Watch our short video to find out more from Deputy Master Iain Lower, Damien Oliver the Senior Responsible Owner for Futures Afloat, Neil Grant the Programme Manager for Futures afloat, and Engineer Cadet Matthew Kipping and Deck Cadet James Phillips.
Future Afloat Programme – Key Facts
- Two new multi-functional vessels
- Replacing THV Patricia and THV Galatea
- Delivery scheduled for Q2 and Q4 2029
- Hybrid propulsion with battery capability and future methanol conversion potential
- UK supply-chain commitments included within the contract
- Apprentice and student exchange programme with VARD and Vard Marine Canada
Supporting our mission into the future
Following a competitive procurement process, the contract will see VARD deliver two highly capable and environmentally efficient vessels to replace THV Patricia and THV Galatea, helping Trinity House continue to provide vital aids to navigation services around the coast of England, Wales, the Channel Islands and Gibraltar.
The new vessels will be based on an original VARD design and will undertake a range of operational duties including buoy maintenance, hydrographic surveying and emergency response to navigational hazards. Equipped with advanced dynamic positioning technology, specialist deck equipment, workboats and a helideck, the vessels will provide enhanced operational capability while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
Sustainability has been a key consideration throughout the design process. The vessels will feature hybrid propulsion systems, substantial battery capacity and shore power connectivity, enabling reduced fuel consumption and emissions. They are also being designed with the potential for future conversion to methanol fuel as part of the maritime sector's transition to lower-carbon operations.
Damien Oliver, Senior Responsible Owner for Trinity House's Future Afloat programme, said:
"We are delighted to be partnering with VARD to deliver the next generation of multi-functional buoy handling tenders for Trinity House. These new ships will ensure we can continue to fulfil our statutory responsibilities efficiently and effectively for decades to come."
Iain Lower, Deputy Master and Chief Executive Officer of Trinity House, said:
"Following a highly competitive tender process, I am pleased that we have selected VARD, a world-class shipbuilder with an outstanding reputation for quality and innovation, to deliver these vital new vessels.
"The replacement of our ageing fleet represents a significant investment in the future of Trinity House and the safety of those who rely on our services."
Cathrine Kristiseter Marti, Chief Executive Officer of VARD Group, said:
"After a long and thorough process, we are thrilled to have been awarded the contract to renew Trinity House's capabilities to maintain and modernise crucial marine infrastructure in UK waters. We look forward to working together to develop maritime competence across borders and support the future of the maritime industry."
In addition to vessel construction, the contract includes a training partnership between Trinity House, VARD and Vard Marine in Canada, giving apprentices and students opportunities to develop maritime skills through international collaboration. The agreement also includes commitments to UK supply chain participation throughout the build programme.
The vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2029 and will play a central role in supporting Trinity House's mission to safeguard shipping and seafarers through the provision of reliable aids to navigation and maritime services.
Trinity House is a maritime safety and welfare organisation that works for the benefit and safety of all mariners as a General Lighthouse Authority and maritime charity.
As a General Lighthouse Authority, it operates marine aids to navigation that are critical to the safety of ships and seafarers, providing an essential service for the prosperity of our island nation. As a self-funding maritime charity, it provides education, support and welfare to the seafaring community.
For more information:
Neil Jones, Communications Manager
neil.jones@trinityhouse.co.uk
www.trinityhouse.co.uk