NEWS

Fusion Marine has supplied a pontoon for the operator of the famous Sir Walter Scott steamship at Loch Katrine in The Trossachs.

The 23.5m by 2.2m pontoon for the Steamship Sir Walter Scott Ltd is made from recycled plastic and polyethylene (PE) and will be used by a smaller sister vessel operated by the company, Ellen’s Isle.

The 28-seater vessel, which was commissioned this year, can be used by visitors who may have just missed the departure of the SS Sir Walter Scott, or who could not get on because it is full, or who simply want to go on a shorter trip.  It will also be operational throughout the year at times when the Sir Walter Scott is not in service.

Powered  by environmentally friendly recycled vegetable oil, Ellen’s Isle will provide 45 minute cruises round the islands at the east end of the loch, offering a more intimate view of the spectacular surroundings as she is able to go where the steamer cannot.

The 2.2m pontoon, which has rope rails, is fully decked in recycled plastic, with buoyancy provided by thick-walled 315mm plastic flotation pipes.

The flexible nature of the pontoon allows it to slope away from its shore anchor point without the need for passengers to use ladders to gain access to the vessel. The loch is famous for being the principal source of Glasgow’s water supply and the pontoon is ideal for coping with the fluctuating water levels.

Gordon Allan, managing director for Steamship Sir Walter Scott Ltd said: “The pontoon has worked exceptionally well for us and cruises on the Ellen’s Isle have been extremely popular. We even have lined-up a special programme of Santa cruises for the Festive season!”

Fusion Marine pontoons have already been used with great success by a number of other operators in Scotland as they provide a great way for estates, communities and hotels to provide easy marine access.

Iain Forbes of Fusion Marine said: “We have received an incredible amount of interest in our pontoons as they can help create a range of new opportunities for businesses and communities, particularly in remote areas.

“It really is so versatile and the concept lends itself to surroundings and environments not normally considered suitable for more conventional pontoons.”