Geo-Searcher arrives at Tristan for the first time
Geo-Searcher arrives at Tristan on its maiden voyage
Report and photos from Tristan Administrator Sean Burns
Geo-Searcher off Tristan on 15th April
The MV Geo-Searcher arrived late afternoon on Good Friday 14th April 2017 but the harbour was not operational because of poor weather. Things had improved by Saturday 15th April so Chief Islander Ian Lavarello, Head of Fisheries James Glass and I joined the raft and went out to greet Andrew James, Captain Clarence and all on the vessel.
We were given a full tour including the factory, the main hold, bridge, engine room and the passenger accommodation, which is en suite and includes spacious day rooms and dining areas. We were all impressed.
I welcomed the team here and acknowledged the hard work that had gone in to the whole operation. Ian then presented Clarence with a Tristan flag and I presented Andrew with a Tristan plaque.
Party assembled on the Geo-Searcher's Bridge on 15th April
From the right: - Administrator Sean Burns, Captain Clarence October, James Glass, Ovenstones Managing Director Andrew James, Chief Islander Ian Lavarello, Erik MacKenzie and two others.
We then came ashore with passengers Michelle Green and Adrian Swain plus an injured crew member. She also took on Rodney Green and Warren Glass as fishing observers and Erik MacKenzie also joined the vessel. She is now heading to fish at Inaccessible.
The ship returned on Monday 17th April Ovenstones Managing Director Andrew James came ashore for meeetings on Tuesday 18th April with the Island Council, fishermen, processors and his own team. She will the head for Gough for further fishing trials. Ian, Marina and I will join the trip and get ashore to see the Gough team.
Geo Searcher seen from Calshot Harbour on 15th April