Grandweld Shipyards Launches Tenth Boat of KOC Fleet  

The UAE-based Grandweld Shipyards has announced the launch of its sixth pilot boat for Kuwait Oil Company (KOC).

As per a contract signed in May 2017, the “MESKAN” is the final boat of ten – four crew transport boats and six pilot boats – that Grandweld was required to build for KOC’s fleet.

With this launch, the total number of six deliverable pilot boats has been completed. Moreover, the remaining four boats that were already launched prior, will be delivered in June 2019 after full inspection and testing for sailing performance.

The new “MESKAN” boat, which was specifically designed to meet the needs of KOC, was launched ahead of schedule as per the contract between Grandweld and KOC.

In accordance with the classification standards of Lloyd's Register, “MESKAN” will provide high operational efficiency and elite safety.

Jamal Abki, General Manager of Grandweld Shipyards said: “Through great proficiency, we have completed the building of KOC’s 10 boats before the specified deadline and it is with great pleasure that we are here today inaugurating the “MESKAN”.

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“We are proud to once again demonstrate our first-tier time management and control of project workflow to meet deadlines promptly, if not ahead of schedule.

“Ensuring our clients’ utmost satisfaction and safeguarding their business opportunities are our top priorities. Despite the fact, that the agreed upon contract stipulated a speed of 22 knots for “MESKAN”, we have exceeded project specifications by designing and building it to reach a speed of up to 24 knots.

Sami Al-Sawagh, Marine Operations Manager at KOC said: “The launch of these vessels comes at a very opportune time for KOC, as our operations have expanded exponentially.

“The high level of satisfaction and positive feedback we have received from our crews about these boats, played a major role in contributing to our decision to choose Grandweld for these builds.”

“MESKAN” is considered remarkable in build, combining both steel and aluminum in the structure of the hull to achieve greater stability in sailing, and ensuring optimal safety.

Boasting a maximum speed of up to 24 knots, the boat has a sailing range that reaches up to 250 nautical miles.

Designed to withstand the most challenging weather conditions, “MESKAN” is capable of connecting marine crews and assisting ships to dock around the clock.

Furthermore, it is able to work on coastal ports or offshore berths, which Kuwait owns four of.

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