ETV training exercise in Scapa Flow

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) emergency towing vessel, IEVOLI BLACK, is due to carry out a training exercise in Scapa Flow on Tuesday 5 April.

The exercise, which involves the NorthLink ferry HAMNAVOE, is supported by Orkney Islands Council’s Marine Services.

Exercise Controller Paul Tunstall, MCA Counter Pollution and Salvage Officer, Scottish Islands and Northern Ireland, said: “The nature of this exercise is for the IEVOLI BLACK to undertake the tow of a significantly sized “disabled” vessel. As such this provides an enhanced training opportunity for both the MCA and NorthLink personnel and we are grateful for the support of NorthLink, OIC Marine Services and the Shetland Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre.

“There are a number of objectives as part of the exercise such as demonstrating the ability to connect to a large ro-ro passenger ship; conducting an effective tow thereafter and disconnecting safely and timely. The exercise will start at 11am within the confines of Scapa Flow and conclude in time to allow the HAMNAVOE to resume scheduled sailings from Stromness.

“In the event of an unplanned incident the exercise may be suspended or terminated and the IEVOLI BLACK will remain at short notice to deploy to a real incident at all times throughout the exercise.”

The Council’s Head of Marine Services, Transportation and Harbour Master Jim Buck, said: “Maritime safety is of significant importance and training exercises such as these are vital to ensure everyone is prepared and well practised for the challenges which can unfortunately materialise. We are all committed to protecting vessels which get into trouble at sea, the marine environment and safeguarding the coastline.”

Captain John Strathearn, Serco’s Operations Director at NorthLink Ferries, said: "NorthLink Ferries welcome the opportunity to participate in this important exercise, through the provision of our vessel, the HAMNAVOE and careful planning and coordination with the MCA and other partners.”

The ship, IEVOLI BLACK, is a 70 m towing vessel of some 2283 gross tonnes and a bollard pull of 139 tonnes.

The emergency tug is funded by the UK Government.