1964 Custom Buoy Tender Support

This 1964 multi-purpose buoy tender was built by Hitzler in Germany and underwent extensive reconstruction between 2012 and 2013. At 137 feet long with a beam of 26 feet 8 inches and a maximum draft of 6 feet 7 inches, the steel hull combines shallow-water capability with substantial working capacity. The boat is powered by two MAN diesel engines producing 344 horsepower each, with Voith-Schneider propulsion enabling precise maneuvering. A cruising speed of 9 knots and transit fuel consumption of 2.1 to 2.6 cubic meters per day make it practical for extended operations.

The working deck spans approximately 1,000 square meters with a load capacity of 20 tons. Forward-mounted deck crane with 9-ton safe working load and an aft-mounted A-frame rated to 1 ton make the boat suitable for buoy tending, dive support, and survey work. Navigation and communication systems include dual radars, GPS, electronic chart plotter, VHF, AIS, NAVTEX, and medium-range radio. Diesel capacity is 24 cubic meters with fresh water storage of 20 cubic meters.

Accommodation comprises three double cabins, four single cabins, crew and guest mess rooms, and a survey office on bridge level. The boat maintains Lloyd's Register Class 100 A1 SSC Cargo (A) Mono G3, with next dry dock due April 2027 and next sea trials in April 2028. The configuration supports its original working role while offering flexibility for expedition or specialized marine operations.