By
Rebecca Gibson |
UK-based engineering firm A&P Group is on track to complete a repair, refit and renewal project onboard four of Condor Ferries cross-Channel passenger ferries this January.
A&P Falmouth started the project by dry docking two conventional ferries – Commodore Clipper and Commodore Goodwill – in autumn 2017.
Prior to both dry docks, A&P Falmouth’s in-house design and production engineering team used laser 3D scanning technology to calculate the size of the Commodore Clipper and Commodore Goodwill’s machinery spaces and designed ballast water treatment systems. Both vessels also underwent biannual class survey renewals and repairs, including hull and accommodation preparation and painting, and ramp and engine overhauls.
In addition, Commodore Goodwill’s tailshaft and propeller hubs were removed, reconditioned and returned to the vessel. Meanwhile, Condor Liberation underwent a major engine overhaul, exhaust modifications, propulsion unit overhaul and an extensive paint programme.
“Our conventional and high-speed fleet plays a vital role in keeping the Channel Islands connected and supplied with freight and passenger services year round,” said Fran Collins, executive director for operations at Condor Ferries. “With the conventional fleet scheduled to operate almost 360 days a year, it’s critically important that all of our dry docks are completed on time and to a high standard. Our ships are specialised to suit our routes and, over time, the team at A&P has built an excellent understanding of our vessels and business needs.”
A&P Falmouth also completed a refit of high-speed ferry Condor Liberation in December 2017. The second fast ferry, Condor Rapide, will resume service at the end of January 2018.
This project marks the latest in a long line of vessel upgrades and dry docks A&P Falmouth has carried out for Condor Ferries over the past decade.
“We were able to utilise our full range of capabilities, to deliver these projects and exceed client expectations,” said David McGinley, managing director of A&P Group. “Project management, engineering, machining and complex-lifting skills were applied, which, when combined with Falmouth’s extensive facilities, ensured we could meet all of Condor Ferries’ requirements.”