Press Release

 

NEWS RELEASE

29 MARCH 2006

 

 

MARINE RESEARCH VESSEL "G.O. SARS"

CREW CHANGING AT STORNOWAY

 

The Norwegian Research vessel "G.O. Sars" arrived at Stornoway Harbour yesterday (28 th March) to carry out a crew change, following research work in the Eastern Atlantic .

 

The vessel is one of the most advanced research vessels in the world and was handed over to the Bergen based Institute of Marine Research in May 2003. The vessel is 77.5 metres in length with a gross tonnage of 4067 tonnes and a maximum draught of 7.5metres.

 

Equipped with state of the art technology in order to carry out a wide variety of research work the vessel is extremely quiet whilst underway, emitting 99% less noise under water than conventional research boats on account of its vibration and noise damped diesel generators and its propellers driven by direct current motors.

 

Whilst in port the vessel used the local agency of Stornoway Shipping Services Ltd as well as a number of other local suppliers. At 7.2 metres draught the vessel had to be berthed at the town's Number 3 Pier (East side).

 

Commenting Chief Executive John J Maclennan said "This activity is very welcome business to the port and once again highlights the advantage of having the Airport in such close proximity.

 

The Authority has been providing services to the Institute of Marine Research over many years and it is a sure sign of Spring when the G.O. Sars arrives in Port"