Comments (Newest First):

 

Post 774

  Ed Connell, Dover

Yes indeed, as Mike says the Type 23 frigate was HMS Richmond. The aforementioned HMS Northumberland is about to depart from Plymouth quote:

"HMS NORTHUMBERLAND has completed final preparations and is now ready to deploy on a seven-month voyage policing crucial international maritime trade routes. The Type 23 frigate leaves Plymouth on Monday morning (19th May) to relieve her sister ship HMS SOMERSET after her six-months patrol helping to keep the sea lanes open and clamping down on illegal activity in the region. The ship has conducted visits round the UK, including to her affiliated county of Northumberland and carried out trials and the normal operational sea training programme under Flag Officer Sea Training.

HMS NORTHUMBERLAND is now to deploy as part of the Royal Navy's standing commitment in the Middle East, providing reassurance to the UK's allies in the region, policing busy shipping lanes and carrying out maritime security and counter-piracy patrols."


Friday, 16 May 2014 - 14:50

 

Post 773

  PaulB, Sea News, Dover.

Commitment to community and training sees Port of Dover shortlisted...

An ongoing commitment to the local community and the development of a skilled local workforce has seen the Port of Dover shortlisted as finalist in two categories in the county’s leading business awards.

The Port of Dover has been shortlisted in the Business Commitment to the Community Award category in this year’s Kent Excellence in Business Awards (KEiBAs) for its efforts to protect and promote the town’s maritime heritage, culture and tourism economy.

The Making Port Heritage Work project has seen the Port of Dover and Port & Community Forum work with local heritage and amenity organisations, including the district council, Dover Society and local visitor attractions. The aim is to help bring the Port and the town’s history closer to the community and visitors.

Tim Waggott, Chief Executive of the Port of Dover, said: "This recognition is the result of the hard work put in by every one of our 300 employees, and our shared goal to be the best port in the world for our customers and community.

"We have reached out to the local community, to its schools, colleges and businesses, and together developed key events for the town, including the Port of Dover Community Regatta, and the proposed Heritage Trail.

"Through our work with the Port & Community Forum, the revival of the Western Docks and ongoing investment across the Port, we will be able to play an even bigger role in the long term future of Dover."

The judges also identified work undertaken to support the career prospects of local young people, through a bursary scheme that helps local young people study at University in a port-related discipline, and its Apprenticeship scheme.

Apprentices Jason Scorer, 22, and Jamie Ward, 20, both from Dover district, have made it through to the KEiBA Apprenticeship of the Year category.

Jason Scorer became an engineering and mechanical apprentice at the Port and while working there has been studying for an HNC in electrical and electronic engineering at Canterbury College. He has also achieved a number of other NVQ and BTEC qualifications in pursuit of his ambition to be a multi-skilled electrical mechanic.

Following a year at Canterbury College studying a BTEC level 3 National Diploma in engineering, Jamie Ward knew he wanted a career in the industry and successfully applied to become a mechanical and technical apprentice at the Port of Dover.

Jamie is currently studying for a foundation degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Greenwich, funded by the Port of Dover.

He has also passed an NVQ level 2 in multi-skill maintenance mechanical/electrical and a level 3 BTEC diploma in engineering maintenance.


Tim Waggott said: "The ability to safely handle a vessel every 10 minutes of every day at the Port requires a highly trained, skilled and motivated workforce.

"We are absolutely committed to our apprenticeship scheme and the opportunities it gives to local young people. We are therefore absolutely delighted that the achievements of Jason and Jamie, nurtured by the Port, have been recognised and that they will be flying the flag for the Port at the KEiBAs."

The Port runs a full programme of apprenticeships across the business, ranging from electrical, mechanical, plumbing and construction through to ICT, customer service, marketing and business and administration apprenticeships. There are 12 apprentices working at the Port.

For further information on the Port of Dover’s youth engagement and community activities, refer to the Port’s Corporate Social Responsibility Report www.doverport.co.uk/_assets/client/images/collateral/CSR%20Report%202013a.pdf

Top Image – (left to right) Jamie Ward, Sean Foord & Jason Scorer
Second Image – (left to right) Jamie Ward and Jason Scorer


* *

The striking and large Norwegian Star came in very early today. No picture for the moment. Definitely worth a look.
Thanks for that info once again Mike.




Friday, 16 May 2014 - 07:19

 

Post 772

  Mike J., Dover

F239 ? That'll be HMS RICHMOND then.

Thursday, 15 May 2014 - 22:35

 

Post 771

  PaulB, Dover

The AIDA LUNA arriving this morning in fine sunshine and in fine style. As you can see many passengers on the decks enjoying the glorious the White Cliffs and the harbour as they arrive....

Mike - good info there. Have now checked the number on the side of the frigate and its actually...F239.

Thursday, 15 May 2014 - 15:51

 

Post 770

  Mike J., Dover

Its one of ours ! [I think]

It looks like a Royal Navy Type 23 frigate, but I canna read the pennant number on the hull.

It MIGHT be F238 in which case its HMS NORTHUMBERLAND.

Warships don't usually show up on AIS [Marine Traffic] but I've occasionally seen those little patrol craft that come into Dover showing up as 'COALITION WARSHIP'

Thursday, 15 May 2014 - 10:05

 

Post 769

  PaulB, Dover

Thanks guys for the comments as ever. The AIDA Luna is back in today after her short cruise...will get a picture uploaded later. But in the meantime I saw this guy prowling down the channel last evening in the bright sunshine. Obviously a navy vessel but not sure which navy...is it the Royal Navy? Might be. There was nothing showing up on our Channel Traffic feature on main frontpage. But thought it worth showing...one huge monster container ship moving north as the navy move south. In the background you can spot the south part of Boulogne. A very long distance shot this, so some quality loss.

Good to see the Avon there.

Thursday, 15 May 2014 - 09:18

 

Post 768

  Vic Matcham, Dover

Good photo of the old Avon only small but it has done a lot of work over many years they look after it well.
I t would nice to think that after its working life they will still look after it.

Thursday, 15 May 2014 - 07:18

 

Post 767

  Mike J., Dover

Three superb sunset photos Paul, well done !
I particularly liked the first one, more like a painting than a photo.

By way of a contrast to the AIDA STELLA - here's an Ugly Duckling -

The workboat AVON came into Dover this afternoon & parked-up in the old Jetfoil terminal.
She started life in 1969 as the CROSSNESS. a Port of London salvage vessel.

That's the 'local' DOVER WORKER alongside her.

The AVON is probably here in connection with contractors working in Eastern Docks.





Wednesday, 14 May 2014 - 21:28

 

Post 766

  ColetteB, Dover

Beautiful pastel shades and a very tranquil scene for sure MrB
I love that poem Dover Beach by Matthew Arnold, one of my favourites

Love the silvery moon too, I feel a song coming on, By the light of the silvery moon....




Wednesday, 14 May 2014 - 18:24

 

Post 765

  PaulB, Dover

Some gentle pastel shades were prevalent when the AIDA Stella left the harbour last night Tuesday. She left at 8pm on the nose in unusual lighting conditions as you can see. The tranquil scene was lit by both a slanting sun and a rising full moon...and all on a flat calm sea too. Never a dull moment here in Dover, all constantly changing. No camera manipulation with the colours here, this is as was..as they say in all the best houses..
The moon eventually turned silvery and the channel looked magnificent..just like in the famed poem. "The tide is full, the moon lies fair upon the straits..." These pictures were taken while there was still remaining daylight as you can see, in that brief period of sun and moon. Otherwise known as.. the twilight zone..

Will aim to pop along to the Dover Marina Open Day...see Post 704 below.
Good luck with the Dance to France Andy (705)...if you get a chance pop up some follow-up pictures of the event in due course.
Will watch for that Seacat Mike just in case.



Wednesday, 14 May 2014 - 15:26

 

Post 764

  Mike J., Dover

Remember the SEACAT FRANCE ?
One of the early highspeed Cats that used to run out of Dover.

She’s just left Tilbury after many years laid-up in Tilbury Docks & is under tow by the tug HUNTER & bound for Piraeus, Greece.

The HUNTER can be seen on AIS but unless she speeds up will pass Dover during the night.


Wednesday, 14 May 2014 - 14:38

 

Post 763

  Andy MacLean, Old Wives Lees (jazzandy@btinternet.com)

Please share this to spread the word far and wide!!



Tuesday, 13 May 2014 - 18:42

 

Post 762

  PaulB, Dover

Dover Marina Open Day


Back by popular demand, Dover Marina Open Day returns on Saturday 17th May to provide both budding mariners and those already enjoying the fantastic community benefits of sailing at the Port’s award-winning marina with the chance to try something new.

In partnership with the Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club (RCPYC) and international yacht brokers Clarke & Carter, the free event will bring together the local sailing community and industry experts for a day of family fun filled with water displays, exhibitions, local food stalls, children’s entertainment and a second-hand boat sale if you really get the bug!

Taking place on the Crosswall Quay from 9.00am until 5:00pm, free parking will also be available, so there is no reason not to come along and explore what Dover’s waterfront has to offer.
Ben Greenwood, Business Development Manager – Marine, said:

"This is a great day out that gives seasoned sailors fresh opportunities and introduces newcomers to the charms of sailing and the sea. Ultimately, it is about building a thriving sailing community in Dover that brings people together, creates a buzz and puts Dover further on the map as a vibrant sailing location."

As well as trying something new, why not experience something old by exploring Dover’s very own Bronze Age Boat replica before being brought right back to the 21st century with a bang by entering a draw to win an iPad if you come and complete our treasure hunt.

The open day forms part of the Port of Dover's participation in the Royal Yachting Association's (RYA) Active Marina Programme, which offers additional training, cruising and social opportunities throughout the year. Being run in association with the RCPYC as well as the British Marine Federation’s 'On the Water' campaign, practical workshops will take place during the day.

Bernard Sealy, Commodore, Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club, said: "The return of this event and the growing partnership with the Port of Dover demonstrates the great work going on to promote Dover as a destination – somewhere to savour a rich maritime heritage and somewhere to experience and enjoy the delights of the sea."




* *

Had a listen to Ed's link re the MSC Magnifica sound display ( see post 700 )..,.wowser! brilliant stuff indeed. Wonder could we get them to do that here.
Will give Disney a go.


Another AIDA cruise liner in today..this time the AIDA Stella.
Also just arriving, caught me unawares...the Saga Sapphire.
Another double header for Dover !



Tuesday, 13 May 2014 - 07:20

 

Post 761

  Mike J., Dover

Further to Ed’s comments on the tune played on the MSC MAGNIFICA’s whistles - Disney do the same stunt, playing the first few bars of ‘When you wish upon a star’

Listen out for it when you're watching a Disney ship sail from Dover in 2015 !

To hear it now, use Ed's trick & remove the spaces -

h t t p : / / www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7UXsxloiWg


Tuesday, 13 May 2014 - 05:56

 

Post 760

  PaulB, Dover

Great to see all the AIDA ships coming here to Dover, very welcome they are, this picture from this morning shows the AIDA Mar arriving for its first visit of the year, gliding across the harbour in gentle fashion. Colette gave us the nod on this one with her list in post 691. Will just show the nose here this time to make everyone smile...who can resist..

Mike J gave me the tip off re this one.. I didn't see it coming. An ocean going long distance racer by the looks of things. A serious bit of kit for sure...she raced by the harbour around mid morning. She didn't drop in. Sponsorship by Brunel or Brunei. Just got a couple of shots in time before the camera died of terminal battery exhaustion. But there she is...thanks Mike for the info.

Will check out that link Ed..should be good.
Yes was choppy indeed Jan..those pix below show just how choppy.


Monday, 12 May 2014 - 15:07

 

Post 759

  JanT, Dover

Some cracking pictures below showing our choppy sea over the weekend,certainly a lot calmer this morning and yet another cruise liner gracing seafront

Monday, 12 May 2014 - 12:06

 

Post 758

  Ed Connell, Dover

One of our regulars,MSC Magnifica, leaving Hamburg this week. Playing a tune on the ships whistle. We have enough trouble keeping ours working on my ship without trying anything like this!

Reminds me of the episode of The Navy Lark where the Queen was reviewing the fleet and HMS Troutbridge played God Save the Queen on the ships whistle!

Cannot paste links on Sea News so have put some gaps in the HyperText Transfer Protocol command at the beginning so just remove them and hopefully it will work.

h t t p : / / metro.co.uk/2014/05/11/cruise-ship-plays-white-stripes-anthem-seven-nation-army-using-horns-4724140/

Monday, 12 May 2014 - 11:57

 

Post 757

  PaulB, Dover

Yes indeed Howard a tough few days for the crews..as promised here is a special 'ommage to the tugboat guys.

Spectacular shots taken over the weekend in the high winds of up to Force 9. In all this the tugs kept right on going. Sometimes right under the various ferries bows and so on.. right in the thick of it, and all the while rolling and lolling and battling the conditions. These pictures shows Dauntless almost awash. In post 696 below we featured Doughty.


AIDA Mar in today.



Monday, 12 May 2014 - 07:11

 

Post 756

  howard mcsweeney, dover

looking at the photos below brings home what our people on the smaller vessels and on the decks of the ferries have to put up with.

they were not taken on the high sea but in or just outside the harbour during late spring in the south of England.

it was rough enough in the sheltered area that I live in, doesn't bear thinking about what seafarers were putting up with.

Sunday, 11 May 2014 - 20:38

 

Post 754

  PaulB, Dover

Sunday Morning 06.30 : A Police investigation has closed much of the main road... Blocked off heading west away from the Port as you can see...one inside lane looking okay for getting to the Port. I am not sure what exactly is happening, obviously an unusual occurrence, maybe more later..A very quiet sunday morning otherwise you could imagine the traffic chaos..
UPDATE at 07.20: all roads open again.

EXTRA: Sadly we believe a man died in an accident at the crossing shown around 1am. Always sad to hear of such things.

* * * * * *

The Ryndam left last evening approximately between 5.30 and 6pm in very rough conditions. A lttle bit of watery sun sent her on her way...but I understand there was a Force 9 out there in the channel at the time. One hopes the passengers were hardy souls with leaden boots. The ship looked good when leaving though as you can see, and in the conditions was aided and abetted by both tugboats. She was heading for Oslo and left through the eastern exit. Tough day yesterday for the tugs...see also below. I might have another suitable tug picture...will check. Well done those guys.




Sunday, 11 May 2014 - 06:41