THV Patricia is a multi-functional tender (MFT) operated by Trinity House, the body responsible for the operation of lighthouses and marine navigation aids around the coasts of England, Wales and the Channel Islands. [1] [2]
The ship was built in 1982. [1] One of her earlier captains was Richard Woodman. [3]
The ship grounded in September 2003 off Norfolk, England. [4] [5]
In June 2005, the ship hosted Queen Elizabeth II and led the Royal Squadron at the celebrations of the International Fleet Review 2005. [6]
In 2019, it was announced that the ship would be replaced. [7] [8] In May 2023, the decision to replace the ship with a newer vessel had been postponed and a new procurement process would be considered. [9]
In October 2023, the ship hosted a visit by the National Coastwatch Institution. [10]
The ship is 86.3 metres (283 ft 2 in) long and 2,500 tonnes. [11] It carries out maintenance work on navigation aids, as well as towing, hydrographic work, wreck location and marking. [1]
She has a helicopter-landing pad, a 20-tonne main crane and 28-tonne bollard pull and towing winch. [1] [12]
The ship is fitted with side scan hydrographic surveying capability. [1]
The ship has the ability to carry some 12 passengers alongside its operational work. [1] [2] [11] However, passenger cruises were suspended in 2020. [13]