BIBBY TOPAZ

I had thought, from the news, that it was a small boat... well captured.

She is 107mt long.

She was in Birkenhead for several months a few years back, while Cammell Lairds were doing some work on her.
At that time no one seemed to know just what kind of vessel she was, but I was very taken with that big hydraulic crane down aft. They were testing it for several days and its one mean machine.
Pat

Pat, I think that would have been the Bibby Sapphire asshe was converted from an ROV vessel to a diving vessel in Birkenhead and Falmouth. About 5 or 6 years ago? The Topaz was built in Fosen, and went straight to work. don't think she's ever been to the Mersey

Stuart/Pat,
I think it was 2006 ish as I attended a Bridge Team Management Course (video games!) at the Lairdside Maritime Centre in March 2006 (I think) and there was a Bibby boat there then under refit.
I can't recall the Hotel we stayed in (in Birkenhead), but a load of her Norwegian crew were staying there too and we shared a few drinks one night.

James, yes that would have been the Sapphire. She spent a long time in Birkenhead getting the dive system fitted. The Topaz came fresh out of Fosen and went to work in the southern sector. The only time she was in the Irish sea even, was when we were heading to pick up the Solitaire's stinger from Killybegs.

Stuart,
You are right it was the Sapphire in Birkenhead, not the Topaz. My mistake.
cheers,
Pat