2012 saw the initial collaboration between Goodchild Marine and Estuary Services that launched the flagship ORC range in the UK. ORC vessels enjoy a reputation for all-weather capability, fuel efficiency and the capacity to cut emissions.  The ability to handle high speeds in bad weather is down to the advanced double chine hull with forward ‘beak’, developed following an extensive development programme resulting in a hull design with very good internal volume and roll damping.

Steve Pierce, General Manager for Goodchild Marine said: “The longevity of our working relationship is such that we are in a position to announce our fourth contract with Estuary Services Limited.  We are very fortunate that Ian Lord, the General Manager of ESL, understood the design, had a willingness to embrace our vision, and took the opportunity to help us introduce our ORC vessels into the UK.”  He added, “The commitment from ESL and our designer Didier Marchand from Pantocarene has developed into an enduring partnership.”

The latest contract coincides with Ian Lord’s move to a new position within ESL, as the company’s Project Engineer.  Lord said: “It made complete sense to invest in a fourth ORC pilot boat. We are so impressed with the efficiency and performance of the other boats in our fleet that adding another seemed a natural progression. The build quality achieved by Goodchild is crucial in ensuring ESL maintains a reliable service to its joint owners, Port of London, and Peel Ports.

“I am delighted that ESL has played a large part in bringing the Goodchild ORC range into the UK, and I’m once again looking forward to working with the Goodchild team for this next new build.”

The new ORC 136 is to be named Estuary ‘é‰clat’ and will join her sister vessels ‘Elite’, ‘Elan’ and ‘Esprit’ - all named after Lotus cars, which are coincidentally also built in Norfolk UK.