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Ambitious plans are well underway for a specially designed multi-purpose vessel to revolutionise the delivery of humanitarian aid and disaster relief - with a dual role as a state of the art mobile training centre.
Our vessel will be fitted with dedicated seafarer berths and training facilities, including full mission simulators, for the next generation of British and Commonwealth Merchant Navy officer cadets and rating apprentices.
The Britannia Maritime Aid vessel will be the first of her kind. British designed and built, she will be equipped with advanced technology and green fuel technology for the greatest efficiency, cost-effectiveness and environmental sensitivity.
Delivering humanitarian directly by British professionals in British ships, she will operate 365-days a year, initially in the Caribbean: mobilising immediately to save lives when natural disaster strikes, with at least ten times the aid cargo capacity of existing vessels.
NGOs, volunteer professionals and charity partners on the crew will also lead development and infrastructure projects, and provide skills training for local communities.
The intention is to have one artisan apprentice or trainee for every aid professional onboard especially those learning to become skilled tradespeople such as mechanics, carpenters, joiners, electricians and plumbers, engaged in regeneration projects on the ground.
With an overall target of 50 per cent of the ships company to be in training, we aim to provide an invaluable and unforgettable experience for the youth of tomorrow.
Major maritime interests have pledged strong support, including British ship builder Cammell Laird, the UK Chamber of Shipping, the Merchant Navy Training Board, maritime unions, politicians, Caribbean governments and many influential individuals and organisations.
Visit our website for more details and latest updates.
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