P&O Maritime Services has acquired a 50% shareholding in a United Kingdom (UK) incorporated joint venture with the School of Ocean Sciences at Bangor University. Through this venture, known as P&O Maritime Ocean Sciences (POMOS), P&O Maritime Services has joint ownership of the Research Vessel Prince Madog and will charter the vessel to the University, Government and Industry.
Prince Madog is a modern ‘state of the art’ scientific research vessel, which is operated out of Menai Bridge, North Wales. The 35 metre vessel is specifically designed to provide a 24 hour, year round, operating capability. The vessel is purpose built for providing a range of scientific and survey services including geotechnical, geophysical, hydrographic and environmental services. Prince Madog is also ideally suited to support a wide range of activities in the UK’s rapidly growing Offshore Renewables industry.
Built by Visser Den Helder in the Netherlands in 2001, the Prince Madog is well equipped with versatile wet and dry laboratories and a large aft deck; which is serviced by cranes and a large A-frame to facilitate the handling of heavy equipment. The vessel can comfortably accommodate seven crew and 11 scientists. In addition, Bangor University can provide internationally recognised scientific expertise and technical support services.
Alan Rowan, General Manager, P&O Maritime Services Europe, said ’The Prince Madog is a welcome addition to our P&O Maritime Services’ European science vessel fleet, which consolidates our position within this market. We look forward to a very successful partnership with the Bangor University and to exceeding our clients’ expectations for scientific and survey services.’
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Source: pomaritime, January 18, 2011