P.S. Monarch
Progress Report April 2004
Brian Waters, designer and constructor, writes ...
At the moment (2.4.04) 'Monarch' is high and dry on the marshes at Port Richborough where the hull has been painted for the coming season. Also a bow thruster has been fitted which it is anticipated will make handling much easier in the narrow reaches and especially coming on and off the landing pontoons. It will probably solve a problem when turning round because the river is only about 6 feet wider than the length of the hull.
A new generator has been ordered which should be quiet running, and that will have to be fitted.
We aim to start carrying passengers at the beginning of June, but although we have had favourable survey reports on the hull and machinery, I am still waiting for the reports to be written out, so I can't approach the insurance agent or the licensing authority.