Mercy Ships (1978-founded international charity) announced that its hospital ship Global Mercy (IMO 9726499) had completed deepwater sea trials. This is one of the final milestones in the countdown towards the delivery, equipping, maiden cruise, and launch into service of the hospital ship to sub-Saharan Africa in 2022.
Deepwater trials test the vessel during the extended sailing time to ensure all systems are fully operational and in line with strict standards. Tests include navigation and radio equipment, engine performance and fuel consumption, emergency systems, safety evaluations, speed, maneuverability, engine, and thruster tests.
Chief Operations Officer Robert Corley confirmed that after Mercy Ships takes the final delivery of the newbuild, Global Mercy will make her maiden voyage to Port Antwerp Belgium.
While docked, Global Mercy is expected to complete several months of crewing and final outfitting, including installation of IT systems and medical equipment, as well as stocking the ship with supplies via the Mercy Ships European Distribution Center in the Netherlands.
The European visit will culminate in the final send-off from Rotterdam Holland for the boat’s first voyage to Africa.
Mercy Ships intends to hold an Africa commissioning event for the arrival of Global Mercy in Dakar Sengal in early 2022.
The ship's purpose-designed hospital decks consist of 6 operating theatres and hospital wards for up to 200 patients, laboratory, ophthalmology, general outpatient, and dental clinics. Global Mercy can accommodate up to 950 persons in port including 641 crew members, comprised of volunteers from around the world.
Global Mercy is specially equipped with first-class training facilities in order to allow Mercy Ships to contribute to the support of essential surgical and related skills for local healthcare professionals while docked.
Mercy Ships plans to more than double the current impact of charity with both training of healthcare professions and life-changing surgeries during the anticipated 50-year lifespan of the vessel.
Global Mercy will join Africa Mercy, the current Mercy Ship, in service to sub-Saharan and Central Africa.