Multibeam System for Ports of Jersey

Ports of Jersey, UK, took delivery of a new multibeam system from Swathe Services last week. The equipment, software and support package was chosen by Aaron Gavey, deputy Marine Operations manager, to enhance the organisation’s new commercial survey capability. Ports of Jersey engaged in an extensive trial period alongside a competitive tender process. As a result, Swathe Services was chosen to deliver the R2Sonic Sonic 2024 with TruePix and UHR 700kHz capability.

Aaron and his team also chose the new SBG Systems Apogee-U Inertial Navigation System with a Hemisphere R330 RTK base station and optional Atlas Link corrections. Valeport MiniSVS and SWiFT sensors completed the hardware purchase. C4R Maritime Solutions provided a bespoke mounting bracket for their multi-role pilot/survey vessel.

As an existing HYPACK user, Aaron chose to enhance their software capability with the HYSWEEP module.

The Swathe Services team successfully installed and trialled the equipment in Jersey. Aaron Gavey commented that Swathe Services provided a turn-key solution that met all aspects of the Port of Jersey’s operational requirements. There was a particular need to install on the existing multi-role pilot vessel and to take into account the large 12 metre tidal range.

Initial data acquisition has been promising and they are looking forward to using the system for both the Port of Jersey’s own requirements, as well as for future commercial projects that may be open to Ports of Jersey.

James Williams, managing director of Swathe Services added that Ports of Jersey selected the new Apogee-U INS. Swathe Services have worked with the Apogee system 3 times since its product launch and it has proven to be an outstanding sensor. He believes that Ports of Jersey has started a new trend in INS selection within the UK market.