VESSEL REVIEW | UK builder introduces all-electric, debris-collecting catamaran

MMS Workboats, a division of UK-based MMS Ship Repair and Dry Dock (MMS), has introduced the first example of a new series of debris collection workboat optimised for enclosed waters.

Designed by Rockabill Marine Design to make waterways cleaner and support industries such as fish farming, the 8.5- by 2.55-metre, 19-tonne aluminium catamaran can be operated by a single user, enabling efficient clearance of plastic and flotsam from the water’s surface.

Rockabill designed the workboat in response to the increasing need for plastic removal from waterways worldwide. Surface waste is collected between the twin hulls as the vessel moves forward along the water and is funnelled into a basket with capacity for three cubic metres.

The catamaran is ideal for a range of applications including clearing of harbours, ports, marinas, lakes, and canals, and an operating draught of only 0.3 metre ensures safe navigation in restrictive waterways. It can also be used as a general utility workboat, supporting aquaculture operations and activities in other industries with the aid of an open deck capable of transporting up to 1.5 tonnes of assorted cargo.

Powered by two 6kW electric outboard engines, the vessel can operate for up to six hours at low cruising speeds while charging of the six 200Ah batteries can be completed in eight hours. The propulsion can deliver a maximum speed of seven knots.

The vessel features an ergonomically-designed wheelhouse with tinted bonded windows that also offer excellent visibility. The helm station is fitted with digital and colour indicators of various operating parameters.