SeaKing Electrical Wins Windermere Ferry Repair Deal

Birkenhead, Merseyside based maritime engineering company SeaKing Electrical has won a tender from Cumbria County Council to repair the electrics on the council-owned car ferry the Mallard following a fire earlier this year.

The ferry’s engine room caught fire in March following a hydraulic leak causing an evacuation of 80 people from the vessel while it was operating on Lake Windermere in England’s Lake District. The Mallard has capacity for 100 passengers and 18 cars.

SeaKing Electrical managing director Dave Gillam said following a damage inspection of the vessel it was clear a complete rewiring job was required together with the installation of a new engine.

Gillam said the electrical works required are extensive and a whole new electrical system has been designed to meet inland waterways regulations and an inspection by the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA).

Gillam said a PA system is being put in place to allow messages and safety announcements to be broadcast in the passenger accommodation and car deck. A cut-out facility will be provided to allow media systems to be over-ridden when a safety announcement is made.

This latest job marks a busy year for SeaKing Electrical. The company has worked across the U.K. and Europe on naval ships, superyachts and ferries. The company has a turnover of more than £8 million ($10.3 million).