Gardline Shipping Announces RV <i>Triton</i> Joins Its Survey Fleet

Gardline Shipping Limited (GSL) has purchased QinetiQ’s triple-hull research vessel, RV Triton.
GSL currently operates six multi-role survey vessels throughout the world including UK, Europe, West Africa and the Far East. GMSL, who will be responsible for Triton’s activities, anticipates that the vessel will commence a Civil Hydrography Programme (CHP) to survey the Western Approaches to the English Channel on behalf of its client, the government agency responsible for safety of navigation and CHP sponsor, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
RV Triton, launched in 2000, has a high top speed (20 knots, main propulsion), a wide beam and is fitted with active fin stabilisers, providing a flexible and adaptable trials vessel. Gardline’s initial modification plans include:
-to increase endurance (fuel/water capacity)
-install haul mounted survey sensors such as, Kongsberg Simrad EM10020 Swathe System
-USBL and Echo Sounders
-Voyager5 – Gardline’s Integrated Survey System.
In addition to MCA projects, Triton will also be targeted at future hydrographic projects; however, opportunities outside the survey industry such as, high-speed escort and training vessel are also being considered.