PRS Supervises Construction of Modern Buoy Laying Vessel

Polish Register of Shipping S.A. has announced the signing of a contract with the Management of Szczecin Shipyard “Wulkan” Ltd. for supervision of the construction of a modern specialized vessel – a buoy laying vessel, which is being built on behalf of the Maritime Office in Szczecin.

Under the signed agreement, PRS is responsible for comprehensive classification services for the vessel under construction, including:

Analysis of technical documentation
Construction supervision and participation in inclining tests and sea trials
Review and classification of materials and equipment
Issuance of class certificates, machinery certificates, and load line certificates
Assessment of compliance with environmental protection regulations
Review of radio, navigation, and signaling equipment
Vessel measurements and preparation of measurement and registration documentation

The contract for the construction of the vessel was signed on April 22 this year with the contractor – Szczecin Shipyard “Wulkan” Ltd.

Project Overview

The new buoy laying vessel is expected to cost over 30 million Polish zloty. It will serve to maintain navigational aids in ports and waterways under the jurisdiction of the Maritime Office in Szczecin, specifically objects and structures located on water whose function is to indicate safe routes for all participants in maritime traffic.

Its tasks will include installing and removing buoys on waterways, as well as maintaining permanent navigational marks on water (such as beacons or dolphins). Additionally, the vessel will also be capable of participating in ice-breaking operations.

Technical Specifications

The new buoy laying vessel will be a specialized unit designed in accordance with the “Rules for the Classification and Construction of Seagoing Ships,” intended for operation in Area III with ice class L1, enabling it to work in challenging weather conditions (up to Beaufort scale 6 and sea state 4).

The vessel will be equipped with a modern deck crane, capstan, and enlarged working deck, which will significantly increase its operational capabilities during navigational marking work.

The vessel’s launching is scheduled for the end of 2026.

Key Technical Parameters

Overall length: 29.00 m
Overall beam: 8.30 m
Height to main deck: 2.70 m
Design draft: 1.80 m
Construction draft: 2.20 m
Speed: 10 knots
Lifting capacity for handled buoys: up to 4,500 kg
Lifting capacity for handled anchors: up to 1,500 kg

Significance for Maritime Safety

This modern buoy laying vessel represents a significant investment in maritime infrastructure and safety. By maintaining navigational aids effectively, the vessel will play a crucial role in ensuring safe passage for commercial and recreational vessels in the waters under Szczecin Maritime Office jurisdiction. The vessel’s ice-breaking capabilities will also extend its operational season, making it a valuable year-round asset for maintaining maritime safety standards.