Inverclyde Now Logo AIR Cushion Barge Launch At Port Glasgow

24 June, 2020 | Clyde Shipping

Photo by Dougie Coull

A PIONEERING air cushion barge (ACB) was today launched at the Ferguson Marine shipyard at Port Glasgow.

The 55-metre by 24-metre vessel for CMI Offshore Ltd will be completed and outfitted in the Caspian Sea and will be the first self-propelled ACB built.

It will be capable of carrying up to a 150-tonne payload over tundra, swamps, ice and water and will be used to provide support to the oil industry in the shallow waters of the Caspian Sea.

Photo by Dougie Coull

Tim Hair, turnaround director at Ferguson Marine, said: “The launch of the barge represents a key milestone in the recovery of Ferguson Marine.

“The shipyard has just resumed outdoor working following the pandemic lockdown and the launch signals that we are able to operate effectively with social distancing controls in place.”

Photo by Dougie Coull

He added: “In addition, this project was at a critical stage when FMEL (Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd) entered administration and achieving a positive outcome has only been possible due to the combined efforts of people in both businesses. I wish CMI every success in the next stage of their project.”

Hugh Stewart and Paul Hagen, from Ferguson Marine, who worked on the barge. Photo by Dougie Coull

Richard Keisner, chief executive of CMI Offshore, said: “The construction of the core steel barge was originally awarded to FMEL in 2018 but was behind schedule and already delayed before FMEL was placed in administration.

“We are thankful for the constructive approach of the Scottish Government in the nationalisation of the shipyard and to the the new management in enabling us to take delivery of a completed watertight barge despite the various challenges that have arisen.

“The design of a weight-sensitive craft such as the ACB requires the structure to be built of steel which is thinner than is generally found in shipbuilding practice and the challenge has been to optimise the weight whilst not compromising the applicable rules and regulations.

“Our thanks go to the shipyard workforce in overcoming the challenges presented with this particular structure. We look forward to the completion and delivery of the vessel in the Caspian before the end of this year.”

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