Jersey Harbours has announced that the jurisdiction's authorities will be retaining a supervisory role over Clipper Yachts, following concerns that during the round-the-world Clipper races, a dismasting and a man-overboard incident have occurred.
According to a statement released by Jersey Harbours:
"Whilst Clipper Ventures are of course responsible for the safety of their yachts,
Jersey, as the registering authority are obliged to ensure that legal compliance
with the Jersey Commercial Vessel Code of Practice for Safety in Small Commercial
Ships is maintained."
Following the yachts’ successful completion of their latest round-the-world
race, ending in Liverpool in mid-July, each yacht has now undergone a post-race
inspection.
Jersey’s appointed surveyors have reported as follows, according to Jersey Harbours:
"Individual reports & action lists have now been produced & sent
to Clipper Ventures. The purpose of the survey was both to assess the yachts
for continued commercial use post race and in preparation for their major refit
programme due this winter. That refit will address all issues arising from the
last race."
"Surveys (including comprehensive structural assessments) will continue
throughout the refit program to allow the yachts to continue their sailing/training
commitments in 2009 leading up to the next circumnavigation event in the autumn
of 2009."
"Additional detailed pre-race surveys will be carried out at that time
as per our normal practice."
"We have no particular difficulties with Clipper at this time and they
are fully co-operating with our survey requirements."
Assistant Economic Development Minister Alan Maclean commented that he was delighted with the individual
yachts’ successes.
He added:
“I am pleased to read the surveyor’s report and for Jersey to be
seen to be doing its part in setting high standards of safety compliance at
sea. I have no doubt Clipper Ventures will want to carry out all the action
lists in full and we wish them well as they begin to prepare for the 2009-2010
race.”
The ten 68 foot clipper yachts belong to Sir Robin Knox-Johnston’s Clipper
Ventures organisation and they are now working on short charter and special
events such as Cowes Week.