The outline of this project is the survey and maintenance of the Duke of Normandy to maintain vessel certification to MGN280.

The ‘Duke of Normandy’, a Damen Shoalbuster 2609 tug, was built in Holland in 2005, she is surveyed and certificated under the Jersey Small Commercial Vessel Work Boat Code (Code) which is enacted by Shipping (Safety Codes) (Jersey) Order 2005 as amended. This Jersey Code effectively extends UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) notice MGN 280 (Small Commercial Vessel and Pilot Boat (SCV) Code) to Jersey vessels. MGN 280 outlines the specification and standards that a vessel must meet and be maintained to, to be allowed to operate as a small commercial vessel under the Jersey Registry.

Certification issued under this code requires to be renewed every 5 years and coincides with the code requirement for a survey of the hull, shell fittings, external steering and propulsion. In June 2020 the Duke of Normandy’s certification will expire unless the surveys are completed prior to her certification renewal and examination.

The Duke of Normandy is required to assist in maintaining the port of St Helier open and safe during the windy winter months. Once the vessels other commitments in the maintenance of the Islands navigation aids she is often released to undertake charter work for external companies during the calmer seasons thus enhancing the department’s commercial income.

Hence, further proposed work is being considered to increase the specification of the tug to expand the scope of duties she can perform. As more external commercial charter work is being undertaken during the spring and summer seasons, timing is the critical path for this maintenance to be completed. We would be looking for the vessel to be taken out of service in April 2020, ready for certification in June 2020.