The MISS BIRA (IMO 9251250) is a high-speed 33.48-meter security and crew boat operating under the Nigerian flag. Built in 2001 and maintained under strict classification standards, this light-alloy aluminum vessel serves as a multi-role asset for offshore oil and gas field support, fast crew logistics, and maritime defense in the Gulf of Guinea.
Vessel Particulars & Key Specifications
• Vessel Name: MISS BIRA
• IMO Number: 9251250
• Vessel Type: Security / Fast Crew Boat (FSIV)
• Flag / Port of Registry: Nigeria (Lagos)
• Classification: Bureau Veritas (BV) / IACS Notation (I + HULL, + MACH, CREW BOAT, UNRESTRICTED NAVIGATION)
• Year Built: 2001 (United Arab Emirates)
• Length Overall (LOA): 33.48 meters (~110 ft)
• Length Between Perpendiculars (LBP): 30.62 meters
• Beam (Moulded): 7.93 meters
• Moulded Depth: 3.28 meters
• Maximum Draft: 1.50 meters
• Gross / Net Tonnage: 208 GRT / 62 NRT
Naval Architecture: LOA vs. LBP Hydrodynamics
The structural geometry of the MISS BIRA is engineered specifically for fast transit in coastal and open-sea conditions. Featuring a Length Overall (LOA) of 33.48 meters and a Length Between Perpendiculars (LBP) of 30.62 meters, the vessel maintains an efficient length-to-beam ratio against its 7.93-meter beam.
The 30.62-meter LBP represents the effective waterline length critical for hydrodynamic performance. This balance minimizes wave-making resistance, allowing the vessel to pierce choppy seas with reduced slamming forces. The light aluminum alloy hull structure reduces operational displacement, lowering draft requirements to just 1.50 meters. This shallow draft allows MISS BIRA to navigate shallow river channels, estuarine ports, and offshore river terminals across West Africa, including Port Harcourt, Onne, and Qua Iboe.
Quad-Engine Propulsion and High-Speed Performance
High-speed interception and swift personnel transit demand substantial power reserves. The MISS BIRA is powered by a quad-propulsion configuration consisting of four Cummins KTA 19M4 main engines. Delivering a combined total output of 2,800 BHP (1,736 kW), the engine setup drives four solid screw propellers.
• Maximum Speed: 20 knots
• Cruising Speed: 18 knots
• Fuel Consumption: ~600 liters/hour at max speed; ~500 liters/hour at cruising speed
• Auxiliary Power: 2 x 66 kW Cummins generators plus dual 94 kVA diesel auxiliary units
This quad-engine redundancy ensures operational continuity. If one engine requires maintenance or experiences an inline fault, the vessel can continue its security patrol or crew delivery mission without severe power degradation.
Offshore Security and Crew Transport Capabilities
Designed for dual-purpose operations, MISS BIRA combines tactical patrol capabilities with comfortable passenger transport:
• Passenger Transport: The passenger cabin accommodates 60 offshore personnel in aircraft-style seating, complete with full air conditioning to mitigate tropical marine heat.
• Crew Accommodations: Dedicated living spaces for 8 crew members across single and double cabins, enabling multi-day security missions.
• Deck Cargo Space: A 75 m² clear deck area capable of transporting light machinery, drilling spares, food supplies, and specialized security hardware.
• Security Escort Role: Equipped to carry armed maritime security personnel, providing asset protection for FPSOs, offshore rigs, and commercial shipping convoys operating in high-risk zones.
Navigation, Communication, and Safety Compliance
To maintain its Unrestricted Navigation classification notation, MISS BIRA is fitted with a comprehensive bridge electronics suite:
• Navigation Equipment: Dual Furuno marine radars, Furuno GP-31 DGPS, Tokimec gyro compass, Riviera magnetic compass, Comnav autopilot, and Furuno FE-700 echo sounder.
• Communications: Icom SSB transceiver, dual Sailor VHF DSC radios, Furuno Navtex receiver, and full GMDSS compliance.
• Safety & Firefighting: Robin emergency fire pumps (520 L/min), fixed CO2 suppression system, smoke/heat detectors, SART, EPIRB, and 6 x 25-man inflatable liferafts.
Strategic Value in the Gulf of Guinea
Under the Nigerian flag, MISS BIRA fully complies with local cabotage regulations while offering international charterers proven reliability. Its combination of quad-engine power, 60-passenger capacity, 75 m² cargo deck, and fast 20-knot capability makes it a versatile solution for offshore energy operators requiring rapid crew rotation and tactical maritime protection.