Unique Group has announced the delivery of the first purpose-built dive support Daughtercraft to the North Sea for Vertech, part of Global Energy Group (GEG). The Hydracraft 1500 Daughter Craft vessel, named Vaila, is nearly 50 ft long and is fitted with the very latest Hydra dive support systems from Unique Group’s Diving Equipment division.

Unique Group’s UK managing director, Ray Hughes, handed the vessel over to Vertech’s UK managing director, John Marsden, and Vertech’s diving manager, Alan Melia in Aberdeen on May 7, 2015.

The Vaila is the first Daughter Craft which has been built for purpose, from concept through to design, where before other vessels used for the same purposes have been conversions of existing craft. The Daughtercraft system is designed for conducting diving operations for underwater inspection in locations otherwise inaccessible by larger vessels.

The project was initiated when Vertech (under their previous identity, Global Energy Group) formed a new commercial diving entity. They approached Unique for surface diving systems and so the concept development for the Daughter Craft began in May 2014.

Talking about the project, Ray Hughes said, “Delivering the Daughter Craft to Vertech has been a magnificent achievement for Unique Group. We have worked closely with our client, ensuring the design and operations of the vessel are first class. It is essential that the craft and its associated equipment provide a safe and comfortable working environment for the divers and crew onboard.

Unique Group’s strength is in our continued ability to provide turnkey solutions tailored to suit our clients’ requirements. The supply of the Daughter Craft and dive systems demonstrates the versatility and diversity of our energy sector capabilities.” John Marsden commented, “At Vertech it is really important that we provide our Client’s with the very best safety performance, service, and value.