Hull Inspection: M.V. MELANESIAN PRIDE

‘Melanesian Pride’ in Suva – Scubahire Pte Ltd provides timely, professional diving service during cargo unloading and re-loading operation.

The bulk carrier M.V. Melanesian Pride arrived in Suva Thursday December 13, 2018. The vessel requires hull cleaning on bare patches, prop, and other sites of fouling underwater.

The Ministry of Environment requires pre-approval for this cleaning to mitigate against the introduction of invasive species into Fiji’s marine environment.

A video and photographic inspection has been carried out in Lautoka to determine whether invasive species are present and expedite clearance for the cleaning.

The assessment of the vessel’s hull is important to determine that there are no invasive marine organisms, which may inhabit Fiji waters.

Light growth (biofouling) – before (upper part of photo & lower part of same photo) after cleaning

Heavier waterline growth (biofouling) – before cleaning (waterline is black with energy-robbing growth)

Heavier waterline growth (biofouling) – during cleaning (divers underwater using mechanical rotating brush equipment)

Waterline – after cleaning – professional hull cleaning can save the cost of the service in fuel savings in 15 days or less

MELANESIAN PRIDE

MELANESIAN PRIDE (IMO: 8809189) is a Container Ship that was built in 1990 (30 years ago) and is sailing under the flag of Hong Kong.

It’s carrying capacity is 981 TEU and her current draught is reported to be 5.1 meters. Her length overall (LOA) is 158 meters and her width is 22 meters.