We often think that civilian shipbuilding in the UK is something to read about in history books but for smaller vessels like workboats, RIB’s and service craft that thought could not be further from the truth. There is actually a vibrant, innovative and very successful small craft industry in the UK, helped on by offshore energy developments like wind farms, and the leisure market.

One such innovative manufacturer is Meercat Workboats based in Trafalgar Wharf in Portchester, on the south coast.

Their specialism is road transportable workboats.

Great to see that BAE will now be using a Meercat workboat for diver support;

Specialist divers from BAE Systems will use the bespoke 15-metre craft at the base – the home of Great Britain’s Royal Navy – for underwater maintenance, repairs and inspections on Royal Navy vessels and installations, including waterfront jetties. The new workboat will include a twin Doosan L136Ti engine with a 33Kva generator and a three-phase compressor. Its AMCO-VEBA crane is capable of lifting 790kg at a very generous 14.1 metres, whilst its full hydraulic hand tool capability is provided by a separate JCB hydraulic engine. With a fully integrated Dive X high pressure diving system, the vessel will have full communications capabilities and video compatibility

The new boat is called the Tedworth and will replace the 30 year old Hamble Guardian, click the image to read more;

This type of craft is incredibly versatile, am surprised there are non in service with the armed forces.

I never get fed up of writing about British engineering success.