Seattle-based Kvichak Marine Industries has been awarded a contract to build two 19 metre all-weather pilot boats for the Port of Duqm Company SOAC of Oman.
The UK's Camarc Design will carry out their design and their primary function will be to serve as pilot boats. The vessels will also have the ability to serve in search and rescue missions and oil spill recovery operations.
Two Cummins QSK-19 marine diesel engines rated at 597kW at 2,100rpm each will power the aluminium vessels with two ZF 2000A transmissions driving nibral 5-bladed fixed propellers, providing an operating speed of 20 knots. Equipment will include a Palfinger PK110011MC deck crane, a popsure fender system and a Lamor boom reel and transfer pump.
The pilots will be able to perform safely in all types of weather conditions, including in the high winds and stormy seas recently experienced in southern Oman during the typhoon season. The Port of Duqm is undergoing a major multiphase expansion project. This includes building a new port and drydock complex in the southeast of Oman.
