BoatChecks Secures UK Grant for its Digital Compliance Platform

Tuesday, 21st October 2025

BoatChecks Secures Innovate UK Grant to Accelerate Digital Vessel Management Innovation

BoatChecks, the UK-based maritime compliance and operations platform developed by SAB Software, has been awarded a prestigious Innovate UK grant to accelerate the development of its digital vessel management system for small commercial craft.

The funding, provided through Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), will enable BoatChecks to scale its Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform and expand its offering for operators of vessels under 24 metres. The award recognises BoatChecks’ potential to deliver high-impact innovation and generate significant economic benefit for the UK maritime sector.

“We are thrilled to receive support from Innovate UK,” said John Peacock, Founding Director of BoatChecks. “This funding will allow us to expand our feature set, improve onboard usability, and deliver even greater value to operators of smaller commercial vessels — a sector that often lacks cost-effective, fit-for-purpose, and robust compliance tools.”

Driving Digital Transformation for Smaller Vessels

BoatChecks supports a growing number of users across the UK maritime industry, including workboats, passenger vessels, aquaculture service boats, and harbour vessels.
Its existing platform features include:

– Digital documentation storage for safety certificates and SOPs

– Maintenance scheduling and defect tracking

– Crew certification monitoring and onboarding records

– Voyage and fuel logging

– Mobile functionality for low-connectivity environments

Accelerating Next-Generation Compliance Tools

The Innovate UK grant will be used to develop new capabilities such as:

– Training record management

– Dynamic risk assessments

– Live condition monitoring

– Enhanced analytics and reporting

Together, these developments will create a more integrated compliance ecosystem for vessel owners and fleet managers.

Industry Recognition and Collaboration

This announcement follows BoatChecks’ partnership with Williams Shipping, a leading UK fleet operator and port services provider, which has rolled out the platform across its operational fleet. Williams Shipping has already reported improved safety assurance and crew accountability since adopting the system.

“This grant reflects the growing recognition that smaller vessel operators need modern, scalable tools to stay compliant and safe at sea,” added Peacock. “Our goal is to make the same level of digital transformation seen in large shipping accessible to smaller fleets — without the complexity or high costs.”

About Innovate UK

Innovate UK (IUK), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), provides targeted sectors with funding, expertise, and facilities to help businesses test, demonstrate, and commercialise innovations, accelerating economic growth and technological progress.

Associated Listing:

Walcon Marine Delivers Two New Marinas for the Port of Dover

Thursday, 16th October 2025

Walcon Marine Delivers Two New Marinas as Part of the Port of Dover’s £250 Million Waterfront Transformation

Walcon Marine is proud to announce the successful delivery of two new marinas for the Port of Dover, a major milestone in the port’s ambitious Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) regeneration project.

The £250 million DWDR scheme is the largest single investment ever undertaken by the Port of Dover and forms a cornerstone of the town’s wider waterfront revitalisation. Walcon Marine’s contribution was delivered in two key phases:

Phase One: Outer Harbour Marina

In 2024, Walcon Marine completed the installation of pontoons providing berths for up to 250 boats in the newly created Outer Harbour Marina. This work included the removal of older infrastructure and the installation of new pontoons, access bridges, bridgeheads, and full mechanical and electrical systems.

Phase Two: Wellington Dock Marina

The second phase, completed in summer 2025, saw Walcon Marine design, build, and install a brand-new marina within the historic Wellington Dock. This included extensive dredging and the introduction of 135 new berths, bringing the total number of new berths across the DWDR site to nearly 400.

Constructed using Walcon’s System 2000 aluminium pontoons with non-slip mesh decking, the Wellington Dock Marina is now a standout feature of Dover’s reimagined waterfront — combining modern marina design with respect for the area’s maritime heritage.

Walcon’s innovative Road Transportable Rig played a vital role in the project, allowing the team to access and operate efficiently within the dock’s challenging site conditions. Tasks included repositioning existing piles, installing new pontoons, and reconfiguring marina layouts to optimise space and usability.

Preserving Dover’s Historic Character

Given Dover’s status as a site of significant historical importance, the DWDR project was carefully designed to preserve the town’s maritime heritage. The redevelopment retained the historic Wellington Dock and established a new navigable channel connecting it to the Outer Marina. Specialist heritage teams worked closely with engineers throughout the process to ensure archaeological integrity and environmental sensitivity.

A New Era for Dover’s Waterfront

The Dover Western Docks Revival represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to regenerate Dover, attract new investment, and create a vibrant waterfront destination. Supported by a combination of UK Government approval, private finance, and European Union funding, the project will introduce new leisure facilities alongside a state-of-the-art cargo terminal and distribution centre.

“We’re delighted to have contributed to this landmark regeneration project,” said [Spokesperson Name], [Title] at Walcon Marine. “The new marinas not only enhance Dover’s appeal as a yachting destination but also reflect our ongoing commitment to delivering technically advanced, sustainable marine infrastructure.”

Associated Listing:

ScaffFloat Delivers Innovative Modular Pontoon System

Monday, 13th October 2025

ScaffFloat, a leading provider of modular pontoon systems, has successfully designed, manufactured, and deployed a bespoke floating access solution to support corrosion protection and maintenance on a major infrastructure project in Africa. The project highlights ScaffFloat’s expertise in delivering safe, adaptable, and rapidly deployable marine platforms for global civil engineering operations.

The client required a reliable and efficient way to access and maintain a series of newly installed piles supporting a jetty extending nearly one kilometre offshore. The system needed to provide 360-degree working access while being easy to reposition across more than 100 pile locations.

In collaboration with the client, ScaffFloat engineered and built two 8m x 3m self-propelled modular pontoons, purpose-designed for hoisting operations. Each pontoon could be secured on either side of a pile, allowing workers to lay staging boards across the gap and create a safe, full-enclosure work platform. Once maintenance was complete, the pontoon units could be lowered, moved, and re-hoisted onto the next pile in just a few hours — dramatically improving efficiency and reducing downtime.

Engineering and Testing in Cornwall

Prior to deployment, ScaffFloat completed all engineering, fabrication, and testing at its facility in Cornwall, UK. The company conducted a full trial build and load test to confirm the strength and stability of the modular pontoon system, ensuring operational safety before overseas delivery.

The comprehensive verification process included:

– A Category 3 Check from Richter verifying the hoisting system’s structural integrity.

– An inclination test in Falmouth Harbour, overseen by a certified marine surveyor, confirming pontoon stability.

– A detailed lift plan with full engineering drawings and specifications for all lifting equipment.

Global Delivery and On-Site Commissioning

The complete modular pontoon system, including both self-propelled units and all supporting equipment, was efficiently packed into a single 40-foot shipping container for international transport from Cornwall to Africa.

Following delivery, a ScaffFloat engineer travelled to the site to oversee assembly, conduct final trials, and deliver comprehensive training to the client’s team as part of a full operational handover. Ongoing remote support ensures smooth operation and maximum uptime throughout the maintenance programme.

Advancing Modular Marine Engineering

“This project perfectly demonstrates the flexibility and value of modular pontoon systems in complex international civil works,” said Toby Budd, Founder and Managing Director of ScaffFloat. “We didn’t just supply pontoons — we engineered a fully hoistable, modular marine tool that directly met our client’s operational needs.

By managing every stage from design and testing in Falmouth to deployment in Africa, we delivered a turnkey, low-risk solution that is improving safety and efficiency every day.”

About ScaffFloat

Based near Falmouth, Cornwall, ScaffFloat designs and supplies modular pontoon systems and floating work platforms for marine construction, access, and maintenance projects across the UK and internationally. Built from durable, 100% recyclable plastic floats and standard scaffolding, ScaffFloat systems are safe, sustainable, and adaptable to diverse project needs.

With options for pontoon hire, self-propelled units, and skippered services, ScaffFloat delivers reliable, eco-conscious marine access for contractors, engineers, and infrastructure developers worldwide.

Associated Listing:

Rotec’s OEM Kitting Accelerates Luxury Yacht Production

Friday, 10th October 2025

For two decades, Rotec Hydraulics has partnered with a luxury yacht builder, proving that efficiency in marine manufacturing hinges on a streamlined supply chain. Rotec’s bespoke OEM kitting service transforms hydraulic system installation, drastically reducing assembly time and boosting productivity.

The yacht builder’s Purchasing Manager praised the system, noting: “Rotec’s kitting service has streamlined our assembly lines, reducing assembly time and boosting productivity.”

This enduring partnership is built on a comprehensive support system:

Precision Kitting: Custom-manufactured hydraulic hose assemblies are delivered pre-bundled with all necessary fittings and components for immediate installation.

Just-in-Time Supply: A Kanban supply methodology minimizes client inventory and guarantees components arrive exactly when needed.

Asset Management: Support includes full Hose Management, utilising the Parker Tracking System (PTS) for global traceability, periodic inspections, and fast replacement services.

Dedicated Service: A dedicated Account Relationship Manager ensures consistent, expert support across all supply and technical requirements.

By handling the complexity of component management, Rotec allows high-end marine manufacturers to focus solely on construction, maintaining world-class quality while meeting tight production deadlines.

For more information visit www.rotec.net, call 01823 348 900 or email sales@rotec.net.

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Motive Offshore Group Acquires Weld Integrity

Monday, 6th October 2025

Motive Offshore Group Acquires Weld Integrity to Strengthen Inspection Capabilities and Expand in Norway

Motive Offshore Group (Motive), a leading specialist in rental, inspection, and engineering equipment for the energy sector, has announced the acquisition of Norway-based inspection and testing company Weld Integrity Group.

The acquisition will significantly enhance Motive’s Certification & Inspection (C&I) capabilities and reinforce its presence in Norway’s rapidly growing offshore energy market. The move is expected to deliver an additional £1 million in annual EBITDA to the group.

Under the agreement, Weld Integrity’s Norwegian operations will be fully integrated into Motive’s structure, combining the expertise and resources of both teams to ensure a seamless transition and expanded service offering for clients. The acquisition will notably strengthen Motive’s in-house Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and inspection services while broadening its customer base across industries including civil construction, aerospace, and infrastructure.

This strategic move aligns with Motive’s long-term goal of diversifying its revenue streams and achieving 75% of revenue from non-oil and gas sources by 2026. With the addition of advanced NDT capabilities such as Radiographic/X-ray inspection, Motive will be able to deliver a wider range of non-intrusive inspection services to customers across regions spanning from the Middle East to the United States.

As part of the deal, Motive will also acquire Weld Integrity’s majority shareholding in Weld Integrity Oslo and Integrity Heat, which specializes in heat treatment of welds and materials. The acquisition brings a seasoned management team and a highly skilled workforce into Motive, including 20 experienced inspectors who add a range of multidisciplinary expertise in Norway and globally.

Max Brown, Founder and CEO of Weld Integrity Group, will assume the role of Regional Manager for Scandinavia. Brown brings more than two decades of NDT industry experience and will play a key role in expanding Motive’s footprint in the region.

Dave Acton, CEO at Motive Offshore Group, commented: “Norway is an exciting and fast-growing market in offshore energy. Weld Integrity’s highly competent local team will help us strengthen our position in this vibrant market while expanding our NDT and inspection services to customers globally. Our C&I Division delivers long-term, recurring revenue by supporting customers in maximising efficiency, reducing risk, and ensuring full compliance with standards and regulations.”

Max Brown, Founder and CEO of Weld Integrity Group, added: “There are natural synergies between our businesses and significant opportunities to combine our services. This partnership allows us to access Motive’s international customer base while introducing Motive’s broader capabilities to our existing clients in Norway’s commercial and industrial sectors. With our EBITDA up 29% over the past year and strong growth potential ahead, this acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for both companies.”

About Motive Offshore Group

Motive Offshore Group is a global specialist in the design, manufacture, rental, and inspection of high-performance equipment for the energy industry. The company provides a comprehensive range of solutions, including winches, spoolers, tensioners, reel drive systems, hydraulic power units, and bespoke engineered systems for offshore and onshore operations. Motive also delivers expert Certification & Inspection services, encompassing Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), lifting equipment certification, and structural inspections. With a strong focus on innovation, safety, and sustainability, Motive supports clients across offshore wind, oil and gas, marine, and subsea sectors worldwide.

Associated Listing:

Scottish Civil Engineering Awards Success

Wednesday, 24th September 2025

Southbay Civil Engineering Ltd is proud to announce that the North Berwick Harbour Wall Reconstruction has been recognised in the Best Project Under £2M category at the Scottish Civil Engineering Awards.

The award celebrates a scheme that has not only strengthened vital coastal infrastructure but also safeguarded a historic landmark at the heart of the North Berwick community.

Delivered in partnership with East Lothian Council and Haskoning, the project overcame significant challenges to restore the Grade B listed harbour wall, which suffered major damage during Storm Babet.

Preserving heritage, protecting the future

North Berwick Harbour is central to the town’s history and identity. Following emergency repairs to halt further deterioration, the reconstruction project provided a long-term solution that balances modern engineering with respect for heritage.

Key works included:

– Reconstruction of the lower section of the wall, reinstatement of the deck, and removal of temporary sea defences.

– Completion of the deck infill and precision blockwork to restore the wall’s traditional appearance.

– A series of large-scale concrete pours, including the use of a 56-metre pump to place over 200m³ of concrete and form a new parapet wall.

Collaboration at the core

The success of the project was built on close collaboration between Southbay Civil Engineering, East Lothian Council, and Haskoning. Together, the team delivered a technically complex scheme while maintaining the historic character of the harbour.

For the people of North Berwick, the restored harbour wall offers greater resilience against future storms and secures a much-loved landmark for generations to come.

This award is a testament to the expertise, dedication, and teamwork that brought the harbour back to life.

Associated Listing:

Find Your Lifting Solutions at LiftEx 2025 in Liverpool

Tuesday, 23rd September 2025

LiftEx, the flagship event of the l (LEEA), returns to celebrate its 20th anniversary at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool on 18–19 November 2025. Bringing together professionals from across the global lifting industry, LiftEx 2025 is set to be the essential meeting point for anyone involved in procuring or using lifting equipment and services across industries including manufacturing, engineering, construction, oil & gas, renewables, offshore, logistics, defence, utilities, and entertainment.

Following the record-breaking success of last year’s London edition, LiftEx 2025 promises to deliver even greater value with a packed programme of thought leadership sessions, end-user seminars, and over 100 exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations designed to improve productivity, efficiency, and safety.

Knowledge-Sharing and Expert Insights

Safety and best practice remain at the heart of LiftEx. Visitors will benefit from direct access to industry experts, LEEA specialists, and leading solution providers who will share insights on risk management, compliance, and emerging technologies.

A major highlight of this year’s event is the launch of the Thought Leadership Conference, free to attend on Day One, featuring speakers such as:

– Tim Battersby (RiConnect) – Introduction to the Digital Product Passport

– Anton van der Zalm (Van Beest BV) – Innovations in Load Release and Retrieval for Subsea Operations

– Adeoluwa Bamgbade (SCS Railways) – Tunnel Boring Machine Shield Extraction on HS2 London Tunnels

– Ollie Brown (GlobalData Plc) – Vertical Construction amid Evolving International Trade

On Day Two, the End User Seminar will offer practical learning for lifting professionals, with sessions on rope inspection, lifting skills development, tunnel operations, and safe load securement from experts including Mentor, Sheffield Forgemasters, RelyOn, and Bekaert.

A Showcase of Innovation

More than 100 international brands will exhibit the latest lifting technologies, materials handling equipment, rigging solutions, load monitoring systems, safety innovations, and IT software to help organisations optimise lifting operations. Exhibitors include leading names such as Atlas Winch & Hoist Services, Modulift, Reid Lifting, Van Beest, YOKE, RUD Chains, SpanSet, and many more.

Networking and Industry Recognition

LiftEx also offers unrivalled networking opportunities. On the evening of Tuesday 18 November, attendees can celebrate excellence at the LEEA Awards, hosted at Liverpool’s iconic Anfield Stadium.

Event Details

– Dates: 18–19 November 2025

– Location: Exhibition Centre Liverpool

– Organiser: Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA)

– Headline Sponsor: RiConnect, supported by Yoke and Hoist

Registration is now open at liftex25.eventreference.com.

Associated Exhibition:

Get Onboard Safely with Inland and Coastal at SIBS 2025

Wednesday, 17th September 2025

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems returns to the Southampton International Boat Show (SIBS) with its Get Onboard Safely campaign, reinforcing its commitment to safe and accessible boating.

Throughout the show, the company will join The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) on stand H394 in New Wave Hall, once again sponsoring the daily exhibitor stand drinks (excluding Wednesday, when IGY sponsors the Awards Reception). Visitors can expect a warm welcome, complete with the return of Guinness, making the TYHA stand a lively hub for networking and community spirit.

This year also marks the official launch of Harbours and their Masters, the new book by sailor and adventurer Mark Ashley-Miller. Inland and Coastal proudly supported Mark’s ambitious voyage around the UK on his vessel Good Dog, where he set out to meet every harbour master in the country.

At SIBS 2025, visitors will be able to:

– Step aboard Good Dog and meet Mark in person.

– Hear stories from his journey.

– Attend his special talk on Monday at 4pm at the TYHA stand.

“Supporting Mark’s incredible journey was a natural fit for Inland and Coastal,” said Jon Challis, Head of Business Development. “Harbour masters are often the first line of safety for boaters, and Mark’s project perfectly reflects our mission to help everyone get onboard safely.”

With more than 20 years of expertise, Inland and Coastal continues to lead in the design and supply of pontoons, gangways, and water access systems. From its innovative GRC decking to robust pontoon solutions, the company remains focused on safety, durability, and future-proofing marinas and waterfronts.

The Inland and Coastal team will be available throughout the show to discuss projects, offer technical advice, and showcase how their systems make boating safer and more enjoyable.

Associated Listing:

Williams Shipping Celebrates the Christening of Willdiscover

Monday, 15th September 2025

Williams Shipping has officially welcomed the newest addition to its expanding marine fleet, the Willdiscover, at a christening ceremony held at Millstone Point, Shamrock Quay, Southampton UK. The event brought together more than 100 guests, including partners, clients, colleagues, and family members, to celebrate this significant milestone in the company’s 130-year history.

Built by leading Dutch shipbuilder Neptune Marine, Willdiscover is a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose vessel designed with the latest marine technology to deliver enhanced versatility and operational capability.

The ceremony upheld a long-standing Williams family tradition. The vessel was blessed by Port Chaplain Kate Powell, before Anna Williams—daughter of Logistics Director Jonathan Williams and granddaughter of Chairman Eric Williams—christened Willdiscover by breaking a champagne bottle across her hull, wishing the vessel good fortune for her future voyages. Guests later enjoyed a celebratory lunch and drinks reception aboard Blue Funnel’s Ocean Scene.

Eric Williams, Chairman of Williams Shipping, said: “For us, the christening of a new vessel is more than just a ceremony—it is part of our family’s story. These milestones have been celebrated for generations, and it is wonderful to see the tradition continue with Anna naming the vessel. Each vessel carries not just our name, but also our values and history. Willdiscover represents both our heritage and our commitment to the future of the marine industry.”

Philip Williams, Managing Director of Williams Shipping Marine, added: “Willdiscover is a fantastic addition to our fleet. With increased power, specialist equipment, and exceptional versatility, it enables us to take on more demanding projects and expand the services we offer. We are excited to see the vessel in action and are confident it will play a key role in supporting our customers across the marine sector, while reinforcing the values that have defined Williams Shipping for more than 130 years.”

With her christening complete, Willdiscover has officially entered operational service and will now embark on a wide range of projects, further strengthening Williams Shipping’s reputation for service, reliability, and innovation in the marine industry.

Associated Listing:

Williams Shipping Welcomes Willdiscover to Its Marine Fleet

Wednesday, 10th September 2025

Williams Shipping, a leading provider of marine and logistics services, is proud to announce the arrival of Willdiscover, a newly built EuroCarrier from renowned Dutch shipbuilder Neptune Marine.

Delivered to Williams Shipping’s Southampton marine base in August 2025, Willdiscover is equipped with advanced marine technologies, including an A-frame and plough, and is now fully operational.

The contract for the vessel was officially signed during Seawork 2025, Europe’s largest commercial marine exhibition, in the presence of Williams Shipping Chairman Eric Williams, Managing Director of Marine Philip Williams, Marine Operations Director Richard Brooks, and Neptune Marine Managing Director Martin de Kok.

Third EuroCarrier built by Neptune Marine

Willdiscover marks the third workboat EuroCarrier built by Neptune Marine for Williams Shipping, following the successful introduction of Willchallenge in 2021. Larger and beamier than its predecessor, Willdiscover boasts a more powerful bollard pull of 24 tons, enhancing the company’s operational capacity.

Richard Brooks, Marine Operations Director, said:
“Williams Shipping is committed to investing in modern, high-specification assets. Willdiscover represents our strategy to upgrade the fleet with innovative, future-ready vessels that meet the needs of our diverse client base.”

Reflecting the company’s 131-year heritage, the vessel’s name was selected through staff participation, with proposals submitted by David Nightingale, General Manager of Logistics, and Chris Goddard Crawley, Marine Skipper. Following tradition, Willdiscover will be formally christened at a ceremony this September.

Philip Williams, Managing Director of Marine, added:
“Willdiscover strengthens our fleet’s capabilities and supports our growth in the marine sector. We’re proud to continue our heritage while investing in the future.”

Author: Fran Ginger

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