Seaward Marine, Surge in Export Enquiries
A strong export market and demand in its commercial markets has led to a surge in export enquiries for Seaward Marine Ltd and a healthy order book going into 2009.
The demand follows on from the company, which custom builds boats to order, delivering its 20th boat to Japan, a Seaward 29, in December – one of eight delivered in 2008. The deliveries also included two Seaward 35s, two further Seaward 29s and three Seaward 25s.
Recently enquiries have been received from across Europe, in particular from French and Spanish port authorities and Seaward Marine is expecting several more orders to be confirmed early this year.
Currently six boats are under construction and company founder, Barry Kimber, said, “It’s been a very positive start to the year for us. We’re currently extremely very busy fulfilling orders taken last year and so far in 2009 have received several further enquiries, especially from across Europe. The low value of the pound is currently benefitting us and we’re expecting several more orders will be confirmed. Last year we delivered eight boats. We’re currently fulfilling six orders and it’s only the start of the year.”
Currently under construction are boats ranging in size from 25 ft to 42 ft for customers across the UK, the Falklands, Denmark, Gibraltar and Tenerife.
The Seaward 25 motor cruiser comes with twin diesel inboard engines, each with their own independent fuel tank and electrical system. The boat is designed for use offshore and has passed stability testing by Lloyd's Register for compliance with Recreational Craft Directive Category B. Three 25s are currently under construction, two for UK clients and one for export to Gibraltar.
A Seaward 35 commercial supply vessel is destined to be delivered to the Falkland Islands. The design, while based on the Nelson 35 pilot boat hull, has a layout which provides sleeping accommodation for up to six people.
Other boats currently in build at the company’s Cowes based factory are a Nelson 42 Workboat and a Nelson 42 pilot boat, for customers in Denmark and Tenerife respectively and a further order is expected to follow for a second Nelson 42 from the Danish pilots on delivery of the first.
The Nelson 42 combines a proven sea keeping hulls with a choice of engine options from twin 300 hp upwards. The Nelson 42 Pilot Launch has an operating speed up to 25 knots and is adaptable for various workboat roles such as police, customs and fishery patrol. Both the 42’s currently under construction will be fitted with a new design resilient mounted wheelhouse to minimize interior noise levels.
Seaward Marine operates under a Lloyds Certified quality control system and also offers full service back up for new and old Seaward boats.
