Livett’s are hugely excited to announce the impending arrival of the River Thames’ first purpose-built commercial landing craft.
Designed and built by PDL Marine Ltd in Portsmouth, UK, Bravo Lima GB – which will be wholly owned and operated by Livett’s – will offer an incredibly flexible new way to transport both people and light freight throughout the River Thames and beyond.
The versatile design of the landing craft means Bravo Lima GB can pick up goods and passengers from miles of Thames foreshore, slipways, stairs and beaches. This means users are no longer restricted to being reliant on traditional piers, which can be expensive, congested and inconveniently located.
The landing craft will be an ideal platform for a wide range of River Thames filming requirements, complementing Livett’s already extensive fleet of camera boats, safety boats and workboats. Features including an ultra low draft and opening bow door will also make the craft an excellent base for all river wall or foreshore surveys.
Currently in construction, Bravo Lima GB is due to arrive on the Thames in October 2021.
David Rutter, PDL Marine’s business manager, said: “We were delighted to be given the opportunity to build this vessel for the team at Livett’s. The vessel has been designed to maximise all the space available and have a multitude of uses. We look forward to seeing the vessel commence operations on the Thames shortly.”
To get an idea of what Bravo Lima GB will look like in action, watch the video below. However, please note that the video features a larger 14m version of the landing craft.
Designed with the environment in mind
Livett’s are working hard to reduce their environmental impact as much as possible. With this in mind, Bravo Lima GB will use OXE Diesel engines, which reduces fuel consumption by over 42% compared to a modern petrol outboard of equivalent horsepower.
Furthermore, instead of traditional diesel, Bravo Lima GB will use HVO fuel which is made from 100% renewable raw materials such as vegetable oils, animal oils and fats. This reduces net CO2 greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 90%.
An onboard solar battery will also power all lighting and electronic needs.
Vessel specifications and key features
Speed: 30 knots
Max load: 1,000kg
Passenger capacity: 12 (plus two crew)
Engines: OXE Diesel
Classification: Coded for use on all UK waterways
Bravo Lima GB also boasts the following features:
- Road transportable, allowing for use across the UK.
- Drive-on, drive-off for machinery e.g. light vans and electric bicycles.
- Side opening door for efficient and safe embarkation.
- Opening bow door for easy access to the waterline.
- Twin propulsion allows superb manoeuvrability and engine redundancy.
- Ultra low draft for working on beaches and foreshore.
- Aluminium hull, making it lightweight and low maintenance.
