WITH MUCH fanfare, the world’s largest carbon fibre structure, a $4m catamaran measuring 36.6m long, was lifted safely from dockside into the river Dart in Totnes, UK, by Initial GWS Crane Hire using a 225t Liebherr telescopic crane.
The launch attracted thousands of spectators and the vessel was officially named by HM Queen Elizabeth II. The catamaran, Team Philips, was designed for yachting hero Peter Goss to sail in a round the world race starting on 31 December.
Unfortunately Goss now has some repair work to do as a large section of the port hull’s bow broke off on its first trial outing in relatively calm waters.
It was quite a setback for Goss who rose to fame three years ago when he turned back in the Vendee Globe round the world race to save the life of a French competitor, Raphael Dinelli. He was awarded the Legion d’Honneur, France’s highest honour, for his gallant actions.
Repairs are expected in time for the race.
