MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

MV Sigma arrives in Stanley.

MV Sigma, Falkland Islands new Fisheries Patrol Vessel under Captain Trevor Betts will be arriving next Tuesday to FIPASS after having left England almost a month ago and spending time in Monte port for minor repairs and bunker.

MV Sigma that will be replacing another FPV, "MV Criscilla", has been bareboat chartered from her Norwegian Owners by Stanley-based Sigma Marine Ltd., a subsidiary of Byron Holdings Ltd., and time chartered to the government for a period of 30 months.

The 60 metre long vessel, 1467 gross tons, was originally built as a stern trawler in 1972, but was converted in 1982 for seismic surveying. Before she was UK flagged and fitted out for patrol duties "Sigma" was working for GECO seismic surveying in the Gulf of Mexico.

MV Sigma has "ice class" category, manages fifteen knots and has a helicopter deck from where personnel and cargo can be lifted and dropped.

Although he was asked to interrupt his leave in UK to deliver MV Sigma, Trevor Betts is pleased of having sailed the new patrol vessel that gave ample proof of her sea worthiness during the several weeks of stormy weather.

"Norwegians build good and strong vessels, poachers beware", said Trevor who after delivering Sigma will be taking over the "Dorada" from brother Steve, off on leave."It's family business as usual", remarked Trevor.