Netherlands names new hydrographic survey boat
Hydrograaf is designed to replace smaller craft in Royal Netherlands Navy service.
The Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) christened its new prototype Expeditionary Survey Boat (ESB) on 26 February in a virtual ceremony in Den Helder.
Built by Damen, Hydrograaf is 15.7m long, 4.18m in height and weighs 24t. This tonnage allows the boat to be transported aboard RNLN logistics support vessels such as Johan de Witt and Rotterdam, the Dutch MoD noted in a statement.
The ESB is designed to replace smaller 10m vessels currently being used by the RNLN for hydrographic surveys. It can reach speeds in excess of 20kt, said Peter van den Berg, deputy director of Damen Shipyards Den Helder.
Hydrograaf will have a crew of four: two to handle the boat and two technicians to operate the hydrographic equipment. It will carry out rapid environmental assessments and hydrographic surveys in harbours, river mouths, shallow waters, coastal areas and shipping channels.
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