UK News

The approach to the design of all-weather RNLI lifeboats is set for a re-evaluation as part of a major study being led by Newcastle University and the RNLI with support from Lloyds’ Register. Set up to explore how new technology, materials and approaches can be used to improve the design, operation and maintenance practice of the RNLI’s Severn Class lifeboat, the four-year project will help to improve the performance of the craft while providing the safest possible environment for the RNLI’s volunteer crews.

Using computer models, small scale experiments and full size trials to analyse the behaviour of lifeboats at a range of speeds and in varying conditions, the findings will inform new design specifications around speed, safety and efficiency.

Continue reading “New RNLI lifeboats to be designed by Newcastle University students”

It has been reported that Camper & Nicholsons Marinas has signed an agreement with its landside partner, Westcourt Real Estate (WREE) and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) to permit the £50 development of Victoria Quay in Cowes, Isle of Wight. The plan allows for a landside and seaside development, which will include a new 400 berth marina at East Cowes on the Isle of Wight, UK.

The agreement is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions including funding, planning and building. In particular, the exchange of final contracts relating to the development remains subject to the incorporation and financing of an investing company within the next 45 days. It is anticipated that the investing company will then engage a development company, in which Camper & Nicholsons Marinas will have a carried interest.

Continue reading “Camper & Nicholsons Marinas in £50m Cowes redevelopment”

According to new research released through the Watersports Participation Survey in March, 3.5m UK adults participated in one or more of 12 boating activities in 2014. This remains at a similar level to 2013 at 7.1% of the total adult population in the UK.

Participation in any watersports activity in addition to the 12 core boating activities stands at 13.1m (26.8% of UK adults). This is a slight decline of 2% points (compared to 28.8% in 2013), however this still remains higher than in 2011 and 2012.

The Watersports Participation Survey is conducted annually by a consortium of leading marine bodies including British Marine Federation (BMF), RYA (Royal Yachting Association), Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), British Canoeing (BC) and Marine Management Organisation (MMO).

Continue reading “Boat ownership on the rise says the Watersports Participation Survey”