MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

DAP expands into the shipping business

DAP Mares, a subsidiary from Punta Arenas Dap Airways purchased a ferry to operate in the area particularly during the Antarctic season.

"The ferry-support vessel Chinnok was brought from Puerto Montt where some modifications were done and in the coming days she'll undergo a hull and equipment survey", said Alex Pivcevic partner and general manager of Dap Mares.

Built in Spain in 1978, the vessel is 78 metres long and demanded an investment of 2.5 million US dollars to ensure she's safe to steam in Antarctic waters.

"The basic purpose of the vessel will be support to our air tours in Antarctica. We'll be transporting provisions and general cargo", explained Mr. Pivcevic.

However he also revealed that the vessel might end up being contracted for oceanographic surveying "since we did some adaptations in Puerto Montt and we know there's an interest in using the vessel for scientific purposes".

The vessel has a crew of 15 and should be ready for her first tour next March.

"That's our target. We have the crew and we're almost ready to sail in Antarctic waters", concluded Pivcevic.

DAP Airways is a Punta Arenas based commercial and charter airline flying in the region which at the beginning of the nineties covered the Punta Arenas/Port Stanley leg.

The company also has helicopters for oil rig supplying.