After the Boaty Mcboatface saga Great Yarmouth port is throwing caution to the waves and asking the public to choose a name for its new £600,000 pilot boat.
Port director at Peel Ports, Great Yarmouth, Richard Goffin has given some guidance over the possible options saying the names of vessels usually carry local, geographical significance - and that all the ‘river’ names had been used up.
But whether primary school children stick to the parameters or come up with their own copycat name remains to be seen.
The vessel, which is under construction, is the first new pilot boat to be ordered at the port in almost 40 years.
Pupils from across the region are being asked to choose a name for the new boat, which Peel Ports says represents its ongoing commitment and investment in the town.
Traditionally new vessels are named after the local rivers that join and flow through the port, but with all these names already in use, Peel Ports says it is keen to involve the local community in naming its new arrival.
Entries will be judged by port staff and stakeholders and the winning name will be inscribed on the vessel’s stern during an official launch ceremony this autumn.
The pupil who selects the winning name will receive a VIP day for them and a family member at the port, including an exclusive trip on the new vessel.
At 13m long, the contemporary RHIB (rigid hulled inflatable boat) designed craft is set to play a key role at the port.
The boat will ferry the pilots to any vessels waiting to enter Great Yarmouth, helping guide visiting craft safely in and out of the harbour.
It is expected to be delivered towards the end of October and is tagged a “significant milestone.”
Boaty Mcboatface topped a poll of suggestions for a new polar research ship two years ago and although scientists rejected the name they did give it to a support vessel.
Pupils can submit their suggestions for names for the new boat at Peel Ports Great Yarmouth in writing to the Harbour Office, Vanguard House, South Beach Parade, Great Yarmouth, NR30 3GY or via the website at www.peelports.com/PilotBoatNaming by Friday September 21.
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